California officials seize $222 million in illegal cannabis, arrest 18 in statewide operations

From July to September, 18 people were arrested, 22 firearms were confiscated, and about $222 million worth of illegal cannabis was seized and destroyed by California cannabis enforcement, Gov. Gavin Newsom’s office announced Tuesday.

Partners across state government, part of the California Unified Cannabis Enforcement Taskforce, worked together to seize illegal cannabis, plants, and firearms from unlawful operations across the state.

“California remains committed to protecting consumers, public safety, and supporting our legal cannabis market,” Newsom said in a statement. “These enforcement actions send a clear message: Illegal operations will not be tolerated.”

According to Newsom’s office, the task force’s third-quarter enforcement actions included:

• 133,372 pounds of illegal cannabis destroyed
• 234,198 cannabis plants eradicated, which would have used up to 105 million gallons of water over their growing cycles
• 18 arrests made
• 22 firearms confiscated
• Enforcement activity spanning 15 counties, including Monterey, Los Angeles, Kern, Alameda and Shasta

In Los Angeles County, 16,340.5 pounds of cannabis were destroyed and 32,411 plants were eradicated, which officials estimate to have a value of $26.9 million.

In August, eight people were arrested and more than 21,000 cannabis plants were destroyed in a statewide crackdown on illegal grow sites.

Officials also seized more than 150 pounds of processed cannabis and confiscated bottles of pesticides banned in the U.S. for health and safety risks. Water flow was restored at sites where it had been illegally diverted to sustain the crops.

Since its inception in 2022, UCETF partners have seized and destroyed over 325 tons of illicit cannabis products, valued at more than $913 million, through more than 580 search warrant operations across 28 counties. They have also eradicated over 1 million cannabis plants, made 72 arrests, and seized more than $1.3 million in cash and 223 firearms, according to the governor’s office.

The public can report illegal outdoor cannabis grows by calling (888) 334-2258 or by sending a text to 847411 (TIP411). Tips can be reported 24/7.