Drug lab discovered at home in Thomas Fire mandatory evacuation zone
An illegal Marijuana Butane Honey Oil (BHO) Extraction lab was discovered inside a home that was under a Thomas Fire mandatory evacuation zone while firefighters conducted a structure protection operation.
The drug lab was discovered by firefighters in the 2200 block of Bella Vista Drive on Dec. 13 at about 11:10 a.m. who quickly alerted law enforcement officials.
“The Sheriff’s Office was advised that firefighter personnel providing structure protection in the area, saw several items in plain view that they believed were items related to a Butane Honey Oil extraction lab,” stated a press release by the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office.
“While obtaining the search warrant and continuing the investigation, flames from the fire were bearing down on the residence and the surrounding area. Investigators quickly searched the residence and seized evidence related to the extraction lab,” continued the press release.
Approximately 300-500 pounds of cut marijuana were seized from the home, according to the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office. Also included in the seizure were numerous cans of unopened Butane fuel, 15-20 pound of Hashish (concentrated cannabis), a small amount of finished BHO product, a commercial grade extraction lab and other paraphernalia related to the illegal lab.
Two people of interest have been identified, the Sheriff’s Office said. Detectives are working to gather more evidence in the case.
The Sheriff’s Office added that the cases of fuel that were left at the home in the path of the oncoming fire made the situation even more volatile and dangerous.
No further details were provided by law enforcement citing an ongoing investigation.
