Two arrested for running black-market marijuana operations, stealing electricity

ISABELLA CO., Mich. (WNEM) – Michigan State Police (MSP) arrested two for evidence of running black-market marijuana operations and stealing electricity.

On Nov. 2, 2024, the MSP Marijuana and Tobacco Tax Investigation Section began investigating a suspected black-market marijuana grow operation near the Pere-Marquette Rail Trail and North Loomis Road in Wise Township, Isabella County. After a month of surveillance, a search warrant was served and 257 marijuana plants, a pistol, shotgun, and evidence of an illegal grow operation were seized.

MSP said evidence was gathered that indicated a second illegal grow operation was taking place on West Gensel Drive Jerome Township, Midland County. A search warrant was served at this location the same day, and troopers seized 76 marijuana plants, 18 pounds of cultivated marijuana, and ammunition.

A total of 333 marijuana plants were seized during an MSP investigation into two suspected... — A total of 333 marijuana plants were seized during an MSP investigation into two suspected black-market marijuana grow operations.(Michigan State Police)

Both locations were run by the same people who were stealing electricity and avoiding usage fees, said MSP.

Raul Hernandez, 36, was arraigned on Aug. 6 for conducting a criminal enterprise, delivery of 5-45 kilograms of marijuana, felon in possession of ammunition, malicious destruction of a utility property and fraudulent use of a utility, said MSP.

Giselle Martinez, 42, was arraigned on Sept. 9 for conducting a criminal enterprise, delivery of 5-45 kilograms of marijuana, malicious destruction of a utility property and fraudulent use of a utility, said MSP.

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