HILLSBOROUGH CO., FL (WWSB) - A narcotics investigation in Hillsborough County has led to a massive drug bust, the sheriff's office announced Friday.
The investigation, named "Operation Fall Harvest", began from several anonymous tips provided by citizens through the Crime Stoppers program. Through investigation, deputies uncovered a large narcotics ring that spanned from Hillsborough County to Pasco County and as far north as Marion County.
In recent years, the sheriff's office has investigated many violent incidents associated with marijuana grow houses. Working closely with the State Attorney's Office, the case was recently brought to a conclusion.
Thirteen search warrants were served, ten of which were executed in Hillsborough County. The Pasco County Sheriff's Office and the Marion County Sheriff's Office also executed search warrants.
Six grow houses were found, which contained a total of 481 marijuana plants. The seized plants, along with an additional 24.5 pounds of processed marijuana was found, totaling $1.4 million in street value. There was also $97,011 in drug proceeds seized along with 10 firearms. Additionally, 13 subjects were arrested on a variety of serious charges including racketeering and drug trafficking.
