Photo: Image of weapons and money collected | City of Turlock PD
The Turlock Police Special Investigations Unit, in collaboration with various law enforcement agencies, conducted an extensive investigation into an illegal black-market cannabis cultivation operation in February 2024. The investigation revealed multiple addresses associated with the target location, including five in the sheriff’s office jurisdiction, two in the City of Turlock, and one in the City of Ceres. Partnerships were formed with the Stanislaus County Sheriff’s Office, Merced County Sheriff’s Office, Ceres Police Department, Modesto Police Department, the Bureau of Cannabis Control, and the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation for the execution of search warrants.
On March 26, 2024, at approximately 8:30 a.m., Turlock S.W.A.T. and allied agencies commenced the service of search warrants at various locations, including the 6400 block of West Main Street, 700 block of North Faith Home Road, 4900 block of South Prairie Flower Road, 200 block of South Orange Street in Turlock, and 1300 block of Hackett Road in Ceres. The execution of these warrants resulted in the seizure of well over 5,500 marijuana plants and the recovery of six firearms, one of which was reported stolen.
Three individuals from Turlock, identified as Brigit Oseguera (29), Jose Solis-Macedo (32), and Virgilio Jimenez (37), were arrested and charged with multiple Health and Safety Code violations related to marijuana cultivation. Additionally, Steven Evans (62), also from Turlock, was arrested and booked for possession of a stolen firearm, possession of a controlled substance while armed, and Health and Safety Code violations. It is noted that additional charges and suspects are anticipated to be forthcoming as the investigation progresses.
The Turlock Police Department expresses gratitude to the Stanislaus County Sheriff’s Office, Merced County Sheriff’s Office, Ceres Police Department, Modesto Police Department, Bureau of Cannabis Control, and California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation for their unwavering assistance and commitment to ensuring community safety.
Authorities urge anyone with pertinent information about the investigation to contact Investigator Young at (209) 668-6575. This collaborative effort demonstrates the dedication of law enforcement agencies to combat illegal activities and uphold the law within the community.