Elk Grove Police Department Praised for Outstanding Service

State Senator Dave Cox Commends Officers for Uncovering 50 Marijuana Homes

At Wednesday night’s city council meeting, Elk Grove Police Chief Robert Simmons received a California Senate Resolution from Senator Dave Cox for his department’s work in uncovering 50 homes where thousands of marijuana plants were illegally cultivated by organized crime.

“Residents of Elk Grove take great pride in its reputation as a quiet, family-oriented community,” said Senator Dave Cox. “It is this reputation that public officials and members of the police department fiercely protect to ensure a safer city.”

Police Chief Robert Simmons reiterated Cox’s comments and thanked him for the commendation.

“The men and women of the Elk Grove Police Department are dedicated to this city and its residents. We are committed to safeguarding this community and maintain the quality of life for those living in it. And we appreciate Senator Cox for recognizing our work,” said Simmons.

Through their efforts and coordination with several local, state and federal law enforcement agencies, members of the police department’s Street Crimes Unit successfully executed Operation Marvin Gardens.

The investigation was initiated in 2006 based on neighborhood tips from concerned citizens. These tips resulted in finding 50 houses in Elk Grove and Sacramento with either indoor marijuana plants or indoor marijuana growing equipment being set up for future grows. Approximately 25,000 marijuana plants were seized.

Each grow house was set up in the same manner. All houses were wired alike. Electricity was stolen through bypassing the local utility. The homes were owned by different owners. Authorities have uncovered over $23 million in loan fraud and falsification of numerous documents related to the purchase of these homes. It has also revealed a web of knowledge and collusion between the marijuana growers, buyers, real estate agents and loan brokers.

After two years of carrying out Operation Marvin Gardens, 25 individuals have been arrested. Of the 25, five (5) were arrested in the Elk Grove area and are serving time in prison.

First District Sen. Dave Cox represents the Cities of Elk Grove and Galt and the counties of Alpine, Amador, Calaveras, El Dorado, Lassen, Modoc, Mono, Plumas and Sierra, as well as portions of Nevada, Placer and Sacramento Counties.

First District Senator Dave Cox and Police Chief Robert Simmons at Wednesday night’s city council meeting.