THC Extraction Lab Located During Sex Offender Registration Check

HESPERIA-(VVNG.com):  Four Hesperia residents were arrested after deputies from the Hesperia station went to a home for a sex offender registration compliance check on Thursday afternoon. When deputies arrived at the home on the 17896 block of Mesa Street they discovered evidence of a THC Extraction Lab on the premises.

Assistance was requested from the Sheriff’s Marijuana Enforcement Team.  Upon their arrival, they served a search warrant leading them to the verification of a THC Extraction Lab being present on the property. San Bernardino County Sheriff’s officials said that the suspects were also cultivating marijuana at one time, but there were no growing plants located during the search.

Investigators were able to locate over 10 pounds of marijuana plant material used in the extraction process. They also located several forms of concentrated cannabis known as “Wax” or “Dabs” and Hash oil. Several firearms were located, including rifles, handguns and a shotgun during the search.

Three suspects, 34-year-old Joseph Collins, 35-year-old Lewis Depaoli and 34-year-old Toni Reeder were located at the home during the search.

The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s officials said, “The THC extraction process is extremely dangerous and has a high potential for explosion and fire due to the use of large amounts of flammable chemicals during the extraction process. This chemical process is illegal and is a violation of California’s Health & Safety Code.”

Collins was arrested without incident and booked into the High Desert Detention Center for Manufacturing a Controlled Substance. The Depaoli, Reeder and 33-year-old Lucas King may also face the same charges pending review by the San Bernardino County District Attorney’s office.

Anyone with information regarding this investigation is urged to contact the Sheriff’s Gangs / Narcotics Division at(909)890-4840. Callers wishing to remain anonymous are urged to call the We-tip Hotline at 1-800-78-CRIME (27463) or you may leave information on the We-Tip Hotline at www.wetip.com.