Wildomar Illegal Marijuana Grow Shuttered, One Arrested After Neighborhood Tip

WILDOMAR, CA — Wildomar residents tipped the Riverside County Sheriff's Department regarding possible illegal marijuana cultivation on a residential street in January, the department announced. The tip led to a an arrest and a grow that was halted by deputies in early February.

On Feb. 5, deputies arrived at the scene in the 35000 block of Amatista Avenue in Wildomar, where a residence had been transformed into a marijuana cultivation site.

Guofo Chen, a 74-year-old resident of Wildomar, arrested during the operation, was booked into the Cois Byrd Detention Center for illegal marijuana cultivation, possession of marijuana for sale, and felony utility theft, according to Sgt. Jarrod Meissen.

"Approximately 1,050 marijuana plants in various stages of growth were located and eradicated. The electrical system within the residence had been illegally altered, causing a fire hazard," Meissen said.

Southern California Edison responded to the residence and estimated a loss of over $60,000.00 in stolen utilities, and disconnected service to the residence, according to Meissen. "Wildomar Code Enforcement also responded and deemed the residence uninhabitable."

This is an ongoing investigation, and anyone with additional information is encouraged to contact Deputy Hibbler at the Lake Elsinore Sheriff’s Station (951) 245-3300.

As a reminder, "Community Policing" involves partnerships between law enforcement and community members. Business owners and residents are encouraged to report criminal activity directly to law enforcement by calling Sheriff's Dispatch at (951) 776-1099, or by calling 911 if the matter is an emergency.