Monterey County authorities bust illegal indoor pot grow in Salinas

The Monterey County Gang and Narcotics/Violent Crimes Task Force busted what they say is an illegal pot growing operation on Pearl Street in Salinas.

Officers received tips about a possible indoor marijuana grow and conducted surveillance. Candido Arroyo-Gonzales, 35, was spotted carrying items from the residence to another residence on Circle Drive.

Officers discovered a strong odor of marijuana emitting from the residence and the entire house appeared to have blacked-out windows. Search warrants were obtained for both locations.

At Circle Drive, officers turned up evidence of a previous grow in the garage as well as a .45 caliber pistol and an SKS assault rifle. Approximately 500 marijuana plants were found in several rooms at the Pearl Street resident, as well as high-power grow lights and a ventilation system.

Arroyo-Gonzales was arrested Friday and booked into Monterey County Jail on suspicion of various drug and weapons charges, as well as child endangerment.