(Photo courtesy of Joe Ninnemann for the Illinois Valley News)
The Josephine Marijuana Enforcement Team with the assistance of Josephine County Public Health & Building Safety, executed a search warrant in the 1000 block of Takilma Road, Cave Junction, regarding an illegal marijuana grow site June 8, 2023.
During the execution of the warrant, more than 1,920 marijuana plants and 100 pounds of processed marijuana were seized and destroyed.
The property also had multiple electrical, water and solid waste code violations. These violations could result in the criminal forfeiture of the property.
While authorities were on scene, three individuals at the property were detained for the duration of the search. After each of the individuals were interviewed by detectives, it was determined that one of the detainees was not involved in the illicit activity and was released from custody. The other two individuals were determined to be participating in the illegal marijuana operation. As a result, Darlene Johnson, 53, was charged with unlawful manufacturing of marijuana and unlawful possession of marijuana. Omar Gonzalez, 36, was charged with unlawful manufacturing of marijuana. Both Johnson and Gonzalez were detained in the Josephine County Jail.
At the time of this press release the investigation is ongoing and no further details are being released.