Hollister Honey Oil lab busted, 8 people arrested
Eight people are behind bars following the discovery of a Butane Honey Oil lab at a home in Hollister.
According to Hollister Police, officers responded to 29 Hawkins Street regarding a report of a suspect holding a gun and saying he was involved in a previous shooting.
Hollister PD and San Benito County Sheriff’s deputies approached the home on May 26, and found several people drinking and smoking marijuana in the open garage. Once the suspects saw authorities they ran back in the house.
“One of the suspects was holding a firearm as they ran into the home,” said Sgt. Don Pershall.
Both officers and deputies followed the uncooperative suspects into the home and found two hiding in a closet.
Sgt. Pershall said, “Handguns were located in the home and a 3-year-old child was also found inside.”
Officers and deputies detained the suspects and a search warrant was obtained.
A Butane Honey Oil lab, two handguns, methamphetamine, concentrated cannabis, prescription pills, and other items used when selling drugs were located.
Juan Manual Vasquez Jr. (43) was arrested on charges of manufacturing a controlled substance, child endangerment, possession of a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance for sale, felon in possession of a firearm, possessing a large capacity magazine, possession of a controlled substance while armed and several local warrants. Juan Manual Vasquez III (19) was arrested on charges of willful cruelty to a child, and two warrants
Elizabeth Vasquez (44) and Elizabeth Vasquez (20) were arrested for willful cruelty to a child. Christopher Houg (21) was charged with child endangerment and obstructing officers. Michael Barrientos (19) was arrested on the charges of obstructing officers and child endangerment. Pedro Lira-Padilla (23) was arrested on the charges of obstructing an officer, willful cruelty to a child, possessing a large capacity magazine and carrying a loaded firearm. Darius Parks (19) was arrested for obstructing an officer, child endangerment and possession of a firearm.
“Using Butane to extract THC from the marijuana plant is an extremely dangerous process. The potential for explosions is high,” said Sgt. Pershall.
Hollister PD wants to remind the public that even though possession of a certain amount of marijuana may be legal, the extraction of THC at a home is not.
Anyone with information on this case is asked to call Officer Masso at 831-636-4330.
