Traffic stop in Julian leads deputies to marijuana growing operation

A vehicle stop in Julian early Wednesday led sheriff’s deputies to a marijuana growing operation and seven suspects who were arrested for allegedly cultivating plants.

Deputies found pot and growing equipment in two vehicles in the 700 block of Ramona Drive shortly before 1:30 a.m., sheriff’s Sgt. Tom Poulin said.

Poulin said it appeared the suspects were in the process of dismantling and moving equipment from a nearby house, which was searched. The search turned up 25 marijuana plants, along with more growing equipment, a gun and ammunition, he said.

Deputies arrested Jonathan Castaneda, 21; Kevin Chhum, 19; Adlai Pacificar, 25; Sarat Sek, 28; Dara Seng, 29; Suzanne Sisomphone, 29; and Eric Tijerina, 24, all on suspicion of growing pot, according to Poulin.

Sek could be charged with being a felon with a gun, Poulin said.

Poulin asked anyone with more information about the case to call the sheriff’s department’s non-emergency line at 858-565-5200, or Crime Stoppers at 888-580-8477.