Deputies bust illegal marijuana grow in Santa Cruz Mountains

An illegal marijuana grow in the Santa Cruz Mountains was raided by drug agents Thursday morning, according to the Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Office.

Deputies said a search warrant was executed around 7 a.m. at Loma Prieta Rd. and Loma Chiquita Rd. in Los Gatos, where about 850 plants were eradicated.

Five people were arrested including property owner, according to deputies.

Deputies said the Santa Clara County Building and Planning Department was called out because there were illegal properties on-site and illegal grading. They also said the grow had access to water wells which may have been tapped into illegally.

Cash and a handgun were also discovered on the property, deputies said.