Search warrant leads to illegal grow, weapons and stolen car

A man was arrested in Madera County following a search warrant which led to finding an illegal indoor marijuana grow, firearms and a stolen classic car.

The Madera County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) received an anonymous tip regarding a suspected indoor marijuana cultivation operation inside an enclosed shop located at 18772 Road 21 in Madera County, adjacent to Central

Valley Mega Pit (18742 Road 21).

During the investigation, authorities said deputies assigned to the Madera County Sheriff’s Office Special Enforcement Team identified Jamal Graves, 39, owner of Central Valley Mega Pit, as residing at the property where the illegal cultivation site was located.

Central Valley Mega Pit was a private asphalt pad designed as a legal venue for car enthusiasts to perform burnouts, drifting and other auto stunts. The venue was shut down by authorities early this year due to legal, safety and related issues.

MCSO said further investigation linked Graves to a total of four properties.

On Thursday, March 19, deputies served search warrants at two locations on Road 21 in Madera County and two locations in the city of Fresno.

During the service of the warrants, MCSO said deputies confirmed the presence of an illegal indoor marijuana grow within the shop. Investigators also discovered the PG&E utility box had been tampered with and electricity was being unlawfully diverted to power the operation.

Graves was contacted at the residence and taken into custody. He was arrested on multiple charges, including theft of public utilities, felon in possession of firearms and ammunition, felon in possession of body armor, cultivation of marijuana and possession of marijuana for sale.

During the operation, deputies reportedly seized two AR-15 style rifles, three handguns (one reported stolen out of Texas), multiple rounds of rifle and handgun ammunition, several firearm magazines, one body armor vest, approximately one ounce of suspected cocaine, approximately 9.5 pounds of processed marijuana and $18,020, in addition to pending asset forfeiture proceedings.

Deputies eradicated 625 marijuana plants from the grow site. A 1970 Oldsmobile Cutlass, reported stolen out of Fresno in January 2026, was also recovered.

Officials said this investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with additional information is encouraged to contact Deputy Pursell at (559) 675-7770.

The Madera County Sheriff’s Office extends its appreciation to the Madera Narcotic Enforcement Team (MADNET) and the Fresno Police Department’s MAGEC Unit for their assistance in this investigation.

“This case highlights the impact of strong partnerships and proactive enforcement,” said Sheriff Tyson Pogue. “Illegal operations like this threaten our communities and we will continue to hold those responsible accountable.”