DEPUTIES SEIZE SOME 2,000 POT PLANTS FROM NIPOMO HOME

Depuities Arrest Man At Viejo Road Residence

Sophisticated, Indoor Operation

Sheriff's deputies seized more than 2,000 marijuana plants Thursday morning
from a sophisticated indoor marijuana growing operation.

Darwin L. Charlesworth, 41, was arrested on suspicion of marijuana
cultivation and possession of marijuana for sale.

Charlesworth lives on the property at 1721 Viejo Road where the marijuana
was discovered.

Deputies arrived at the site near Stanton Road on the Nimpomo Mesa about 8
a.m. to investigate reports of suspicious circumstances.

They reported finding more than 250 mature marijuana plants between 3 and 6
feet in height and more than 1,900 smaller starter plants.

They also reported finding grow lights, a drip irrigation system with timers
and powerful ventilation fans.

Reports indicate electric power for the growing operation was illegally
diverted from an underground utility supply. Pacific Gas and Electric Co.
crews were called to the site to make repairs.

Charlesworth was booked into County Jail on $50,000 bail.

Sheriff Lt. Steven A. Bolts said the investigation is continuing.
Authorities did not probide an estimate of the street value of the marijuana
plants.