What began as a bungled burglary attempt quickly escalated into a major drug bust earlier this month, according to the Milpitas Police Department.
On August 2, three suspects, one armed with a firearm, tried to break into what they believed was a marijuana grow house on the 300 block of Turquoise Street. Instead, they mistakenly entered a neighboring business, leaving with only cash from the register, as detailed in a social media post by the Milpitas Police Department.
The failed break-in ultimately exposed a sprawling illegal cultivation site nearby. Detectives secured a search warrant and, on August 7, discovered more than 800 marijuana plants, hazardous chemicals, and cultivation equipment inside the targeted property. Officers also encountered suspects believed to be connected to the operation.
Authorities arrested several individuals who now face charges including the sale and transportation of marijuana, conspiracy, operating a drug house, and forging drug prescriptions.
Police said the case highlights the often-hidden criminal activity in commercial districts. “We are committed to building a safer and stronger community,” the Milpitas Police Department stated in a social media post.
