Man arrested after 365 marijuana plants found in Barstow

San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department deputies arrested a 36-year-old resident of Mexico, identified as Jose Luis Baez Burgos, on October 16, 2026. The arrest followed the discovery of an alleged illegal marijuana cultivation operation at a property on the 27000 block of Church Avenue in Barstow. Deputies initially responded to the location after receiving reports of suspicious activity involving power lines. During the subsequent investigation, authorities observed an electrical bypass and evidence of indoor cultivation, including lighting equipment, fertilizer, and air conditioning systems. The department’s marijuana enforcement team served a search warrant at the site, where they seized approximately 365 marijuana plants. Utility workers confirmed that electricity was being stolen to power the operation. Burgos was taken into custody on suspicion of marijuana cultivation and theft of utilities.