Sheriff's Narcotics Detectives Arrest Man for Suspected Marijuana Trafficking

Santa Barbara - April 28th, 2010

A Santa Barbara County man, already on probation for cultivating marijuana, is now facing more charges after Sheriff’s Narcotics Detectives arrested him for growing pot at his home.

On Tuesday April 27, 2010, Santa Barbara County Sheriff Narcotics Detectives assisted by the Santa Barbara Police Department concluded a three month long investigation into a suspected illegal marijuana cultivator and trafficker in Santa Barbara County.

Detectives originally received information that the suspect, who is on active county probation for marijuana cultivation was again illegally growing marijuana at a residence in the 4700 block of Chandler St. in the Santa Barbara area. Although, the suspect was reporting his address at 2900 block of La Combadura in the Santa Barbara area, the investigation determined he was maintaining a marijuana grow at the Chandler St. address due to the fact that his probation terms included a “no marijuana cultivation” clause.

Detectives simultaneously served a search warrant at the residence on Chandler St. and a probation search on La Combadura. During the searches, more than 86 active marijuana plants were located in a sophisticated indoor garden. Additional items of evidence indicative to marijuana sales were located including approximately ½ pound of processed marijuana, scales, etc. The total value of the marijuana and plants seized during the investigation was estimated at $220,000.

The suspect, identified as Peter Joseph GARDNER (7-28-70), was detained after driving by the residence numerous times in his Mercedes Benz during the service of the search warrant. He was uncooperative with deputies and was subsequently arrested for violations of 11358 – Cultivation of marijuana and 11359 H&S – Possession of marijuana for sales. Gardner was booked into Santa Barbara County Jail without bail due to his probation violation. Additional renters of the property were contacted and released without charges after being deemed not to be involved.

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