Detectives with the Central Oregon Drug Enforcement Team (CODE) destroyed a large marijuana grow operation in a remote private location in Wheeler County. According to the police report, the investigation began in early May after a private citizen discovered the over 2500 plants while traveling through the area.

Last year, the CODE Team destroyed about 6000 plants from this same location.  No suspects were found at the location at the time of the incident and police say eliminating a grow of this size causes a significant setback for the drug trafficking organization in operation there. Estimated value of the operation is about $4-million. Police ask people recreating on public or private lands be aware of surroundings; if you come across anything unusual or out of place, to mark the location, with a GPS if possible, leave the area immediately and notify police. Most importantly, do not confront persons you may encounter in a marijuana garden. It is highly possible they will be armed and will use force to protect their garden.