Multi-million dollar pot crop found in Jeffco

Nearly a ton of pot was removed from the Pike Forest. (Jeffco Sheriff's Office photo)

JEFFERSON COUNTY – Members of the West Metro Drug Task Force dismantled a marijuana farming operation, carrying away nearly a ton of pot after a rancher looking for stray cattle found the marijuana growing on Sugarloaf Mountain in the Pike National Forest.

The Task Force estimated the street value of the marijuana at $2.5 million.

It took officers more than 24 hours to haul the illegal crop from the steep, rugged terrain surrounding the field where it was found. More than 5,100 plants were pulled, carried to a collection area and gathered into large bundles before they were flown from the site to waiting transport vehicles by a Colorado Air National Guard UH-60 Blackhawk helicopter during the July 9 operation.

The find was not announced until Thursday.

Investigators also found a temporary shanty and believe the growers were using the rough shelter while they tended their plants. The shelter, covered with black plastic, contained food and cooking utensils, clothes, sleeping bags and other items inside.

No suspects have been located, according to a statement released by the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office.

Anyone with information about the case should call the Sheriff’s Office tip line, 303-271-5612.