Marijuana Bust May be Biggest in Lincoln County History

Photo Courtesy: LINT and OSP

(SILETZ) - A tip from Oregon State Police (OSP) Fish & Wildlife troopers on boat patrol along the Siletz River led the Lincoln Interagency Narcotics Team (LINT) to locate what is believed to be the largest marijuana grow operation discovered in Lincoln County. One person was arrested, and additional arrests may be pending.

On Thursday, two OSP Fish & Wildlife troopers were on boat patrol along the Siletz River when they noted a strong odor of marijuana coming from property bordering the river with two buildings about 250 feet from the water.

The troopers provided the information to members of the Lincoln Interagency Narcotics Team.

On Friday, April 7th, LINT, along with members of the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office, Lincoln City Police Department and OSP served a search warrant on the property, located at 17178 Siletz Highway.

Officers located what is believed to be the largest discovered indoor marijuana growing operation in the property residence and nearby pole building. Over 800 growing marijuana plants in various growth stages, several pounds of processed marijuana, and evidence related to the grow was seized along with paraphernalia and currency.

Investigators say they also discovered evidence of power diversion and believe this operation has been ongoing for at least two years.

Upon serving the search warrant, officers contacted 44-year old Curtis Shannon Embry at the scene. After additional investigation at the scene, LINT asked Newport Police respond to 613 NW 3rd in Newport to contact 42-year old Daniel Lee Foos and 62-year old Mary Ann Rodden. Foos was subsequently arrested based upon his involvement with the Siletz marijuana grow operation. He was lodged in Lincoln County Jail for Manufacturing, Delivery, and Possession of Marijuana.

The Lincoln Interagency Narcotics Team is continuing the investigation. LINT is comprised of members from Newport Police Department, Lincoln County Sheriff's Office, Lincoln City Police Department, Oregon State Police, and Lincoln County District Attorney's Office.