On June 24, Oklahoma authorities executed a major drug bust that uncovered a large-scale illegal marijuana grow operation spanning Mayes and Craig counties. Led by the Organized Crime Task Force under the direction of Attorney General Gentner Drummond, the operation marked one of the largest marijuana-related seizures in the state to date.
According to the Attorney General’s office, the raid resulted in the confiscation of over 40,000 marijuana plants and more than 1,000 pounds of processed marijuana, all believed to be tied to illegal cultivation and distribution efforts. These figures point to an extensive, highly organized network operating far outside of the state’s regulated medical marijuana framework.
Along with the cannabis seizure, law enforcement officials discovered six handguns and three silencers on the property—indicating a significant security presence and potential threats to law enforcement and public safety. The presence of firearms at the grow site raises further concern about the risks associated with illicit marijuana operations, which often intersect with other criminal enterprises.
A 35-year-old man has been arrested and is now facing multiple serious charges, including manufacturing and trafficking a controlled dangerous substance, as well as illegal possession of firearms. Legal proceedings are expected to move forward quickly, given the scope of the seizure and the nature of the charges.
In addition to the main suspect, 15 individuals found working at the facility were detained by authorities. According to officials, these individuals are facing deportation proceedings, as many were reportedly working without proper documentation.
Attorney General Drummond emphasized that Oklahoma remains committed to rooting out illegal operations that exploit the state's medical marijuana system. “Oklahomans voted for medical marijuana, not a black-market free-for-all,” he said in a public statement. “We will continue to target criminal networks that undermine our laws and threaten our communities.”
This high-profile bust adds to a growing number of enforcement actions in Oklahoma, where the state has struggled to balance its booming medical marijuana industry with the ongoing challenge of illegal cultivation. Regulators and law enforcement alike have expressed concerns that bad actors are exploiting legal loopholes, putting public safety, economic integrity, and legitimate businesses at risk.
With increasing scrutiny from state leaders and continued efforts by law enforcement, Oklahoma’s fight against illegal cannabis operations is far from over.