By Pepper Fisher

PORT ANGELES – The Clallam County  Sheriff’s Office has released more information on the illegal marijuana growing operation we reported to you Wednesday.

On Monday and Tuesday this week, OPNET agents served search warrants on six residences in the Port Angeles area, all owned by the same person, an as yet unnamed Port Angeles businessman.

There have been no arrest as the investigation continues.

Search warrants came as a result of a multi-year federal, state, and local investigation into organized crime and a criminal enterprise to illegally grow and process marijuana.

Over the course of two days, detectives seized from the 6 properties over 3100 growing pot plants and about 370 pounds of processed marijuana. Investigators say the retail value of the seized marijuana exceeds $5 million at Washington state prices. Exported to other states the value exceeds $10 million.

Records seized at the grow locations indicate the operation has been ongoing for at least three years, generating many millions of dollars of untaxed, illegal profits for the organization.

Most of the buildings had been remodeled extensively for growing the product. Detectives called in PUD and PA City Light inspectors, who red-tagged 5 of the homes for hazardous wiring. And hazardous chemicals were confiscated by the Department of Ecology for destruction.

Investigation at the buildings was initiated after numerous complaints from neighbors of suspicious activity and noxious odors.

The 6 buildings were in the 100 Block of N. Baker Street, the 400 block of Diamond Vista Drive, the 4300 block of S. Old Mill Road, the 3800 block of S. Airport Rd, the 1200 block of W. 10th Street, and the 4300 block of Nicholas Road.

(CCSO photos)