History
The Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Office Marijuana Eradication Team was formed in June of 2002. It is funded by the Marijuana Suppression Program (MSP) grant from the California Emergency Management Agency (CAL EMA) and the Domestic Cannabis Eradication / Suppression Program (DCE/SP), which is funded by the US Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA).
The team is comprised of a full time sergeant and deputy, as well as 8 deputies that assist as a collateral duty. Members are trained in all facets of marijuana investigations. This training includes, aerial spotting, marijuana horticulture, cultivation trends, investigative techniques, expert witness testimony, search warrant execution, arrest tactics, medical marijuana laws and report writing.
MET Objectives
Eradication of marijuana gardens
Identification, apprehension and successful prosecution of violators
Assist other law enforcement agencies concerning marijuana investigations
Educate the community concerning the hazards associated with marijuana cultivation
- Educate law enforcement concerning medical marijuana issues
Marijuana Cultivation Hazards
The majority of domestically grown marijuana occurs in California on public land. The sale of marijuana is a very lucrative business and most marijuana related violence is associated with cultivation. Law enforcement frequently confronts armed suspects in marijuana gardens. In recent years there has been approximately one shooting each grow season involving marijuana cultivators in California.
Environmental Concerns
Illegal use of pesticides, chemicals, fertilizers and dumping of trash and human waste occur in conjunction with marijuana cultivation. Related crimes such as poaching, theft of livestock and diversion of waterways result in endangered wildlife, degradation of water quality, erosion and severe harm to the ecosystem.
Reporting Information
If you discover signs of marijuana cultivation…STOP, take careful note of your surroundings and leave the area. Do NOT confront possible suspects. The best way to assist law enforcement is to report:
Location (marked on a map)
Description of observations
Descriptions of people / vehicles in the area
Vehicle license plates
When (date and time)
Contact Information
The Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Office Marijuana Eradication Team can be reached at 408-808-4420 (you may remain anonymous). Maps, diagrams, GPS coordinates and tips may be faxed to 408-293-5192 or emailed to: SO_MET@sheriff.sccgov.org .