Law Enforcement Convoy Associated with MET Operations Spotted in Fortuna and on Southbound 101

Multiple law enforcement sightings early this morning point to possible ongoing operations in Southern Humboldt. Around 7:30 a.m., Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office vehicles, along with what witnesses described as California Department of Fish and Wildlife trucks, were seen at the River Lodge in Fortuna. Shortly before 8 a.m., another witness reported a convoy of about 10 vehicles — including one hauling a piece of equipment — headed south on Highway 101 through the Rio Dell area.

This activity follows confirmed Marijuana Enforcement Team (MET) operations last week. Lieutenant Conan Moore of the HCSO told Redheaded Blackbelt that those operations were initiated based on probable cause from helicopter overflights. In that sweep, deputies served a total of five warrants — two in Benbow and three in Alderpoint — seizing 431 plants and 528 pounds of processed marijuana. The smallest site, according to Lt. Moore contained just 44 growing plants but also 200 pounds of processed product. All cases from that operation were forwarded to the District Attorney’s Office for review.

The aerial surveillance that preceded those raids was conducted on July 16 by a black helicopter, tail number N487HB, registered to the Butte County Sheriff’s Office. According to Flightradar24, the aircraft — a 2020 Airbus AS350B3 — departed Red Bluff and flew low, looping over areas including Benbow, Salmon Creek, Alderpoint, Blocksburg, and land west of Garberville. N487HB has a history of supporting MET during cannabis-related enforcement actions, often working in conjunction with out-of-county agencies.

Shortly after 9 a.m., Lieutenant Moore confirmed in response to our inquiry that MET is actively serving search warrants today.

Earlier: [Update: Confirmed] Butte County Sheriff Helicopter Spotted Over Southern Humboldt, Commonly Used in MET Operations