Michigan State Police have made a significant bust in the state’s black market marijuana trade, seizing hundreds of pot plants from two illegal grow operations. The operations, which were allegedly powered by stolen electricity, were discovered in Isabella and Midland counties.
The investigation began in November 2024, when a tip led police to a suspected grow operation in Wise Township. After a month of surveillance, police raided the location on December 17, 2024, and found 257 marijuana plants, as well as a pistol and a shotgun. The search also revealed evidence of a second illegal operation in Jerome Township, Midland County.
On the same day, police raided the Jerome Township location, where they found 76 marijuana plants, 18 pounds of cultivated marijuana, and ammunition. Both locations were found to be using stolen electricity to power their illegal activities.
Two individuals, Raul Castenda Hernandez, 36, and Giselle Ibanez Martinez, 42, have been charged in connection with the illegal operations. They face a range of charges, including conducting a criminal enterprise, delivery of marijuana, and fraudulent use of a utility.
