Jacinto Correa Cruz, a 56-year-old Mexican national, has pleaded guilty in federal court to charges related to illegal marijuana cultivation and damage to federal lands. The plea agreement was made on December 17, 2024. Correa Cruz admitted to participating in an unlawful cannabis operation in the Los Padres National Forest and manufacturing marijuana plants.
Correa Cruz's arrest occurred in July 2022 during a multi-agency search of a large-scale cultivation site within the Ventana Complex area of the forest. This region is federally protected and recognized for its biodiversity, hosting numerous threatened and endangered species.
The investigation uncovered two plots cleared for approximately 10,000 marijuana plants. Authorities found a campsite with living accommodations and a kitchen area containing significant waste and dead animal parts. Hazardous materials were also present at the site, including toxic chemicals like carbofuran, methamidophos, and diphacinone. These substances are known to harm sensitive wildlife species in California.
An environmental assessment revealed that the operation diverted about 33,780 gallons of water daily from natural sources amid severe drought conditions. Restoring the damaged environment cost over $92,540 per site and took more than a year.
United States Attorney Ismail J. Ramsey emphasized the environmental risks posed by illegal marijuana cultivation on public lands. He stated that efforts would continue with law enforcement partners to prosecute those harming natural resources.
Brandon Robinson from U.S. Forest Service Law Enforcement highlighted their commitment to protecting national forests for future generations' safe recreational use. He credited strong cooperation with partners such as the Integral Ecology Research Center and California Department of Fish and Wildlife.
FBI Special Agent Robert Tripp commented on Correa Cruz's role in damaging pristine forest lands, stating that accountability is crucial as healing will take years.
Correa Cruz has been held since August 22, 2022, with sentencing set for March 4, 2025. He faces up to 20 years in prison per offense along with fines and restitution considerations under U.S.C §3553 guidelines.
Assistant United States Attorney Anne C. Hsieh leads prosecution efforts alongside Sara Slattery following investigations by USFS and FBI assisted by California Department of Fish & Wildlife.