"Operation Sweet Leaf" executed in Denver metro area.
BRIGHTON - Investigators seized 2,749 marijuana plants and more than 147 pounds of dried pot during this week's big bust, according to North Metro Drug Task Force Commander Jerry Peters. The marijuana and marijuana plants had an estimated street value of $13.032 million.
Peters said 40 guns were discovered in four of the 25 homes where search warrants were served Wednesday during what police called Operation Sweet Leaf.
Peters and more than a dozen local and federal agencies held a news conference Friday.
Peters said officers also confiscated $278,000 in money and 15 million in Iraqi Dinar currency ($12,886.69).
The single organization was growing marijuana and shipping it to California, Iowa, Kansas, Nebraska, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Texas, according to investigators.
The U.S. mail was used to ship pot out of Colorado, Pam Durkee, with the United States Postal Inspection Service, said.
The investigation lasted 10 months, Adams County District Attorney Don Quick said. His office is prosecuting those arrested.
Thirteen people have been arrested. Law enforcement is still searching for three others.
At the news conference, National Jewish Hospital Associate Professor Dr. John Martyny said air quality in grow homes can be hazardous to the health of those living inside.
"Growers often use chemicals inside that are meant to be used outside," he said.
He also said grow homes frequently have high amounts of mold inside, which can also affect the health of residents.
"Grow homes are found in all neighborhoods from coast to coast," DEA Special Agent in Charge Barbara Roach told 9Wants to Know Friday. "To think it's not happening in your neighborhood is wrong. It likely is."
Have a comment or tip for investigative reporter Jace Larson? Call him at 303-871-1432 or e-mail him at jace.larson@9news.com.
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