Two large marijuana busts are occurring in Colorado but authorities say they are not connected.
In Teller County, the sheriff’s office reported raids in Colorado Springs, Divide and Trinidad where three people were arrested and three properties were searched in a 14-hour operation. The investigation involved a group associated with black market marijuana cultivation and distribution, according to a Teller County Sheriff’s Office news release.
Law enforcement seized 1,500 plants and more than $32,000 in cash believed to be illegal drug proceeds, the news release said. Several firearms and vehicles were also seized.
The investigation began last week when Teller County narcotics detectives received tips about an illegal marijuana grow near Divide. They also learned of a related marijuana grow in Trinidad and another in Colorado Springs. Three people are being held on $50,000 bonds for investigation of marijuana offenses.
In Mesa County, the sheriff’s office asked people to stay out of the Grand Mesa area because of an investigation into marijuana illegally grown on public lands. A Colorado Army National Guard helicopter is participating in the operation, which is expected to last throughout the day.
Teller County sheriff’s spokesman Greg Couch said the operations were not related.