Jacinto Correa Cruz, a 56-year-old Mexican national, has entered a guilty plea in federal court to charges related to the destruction of public land and illegal marijuana cultivation in Los Padres National Forest. The plea agreement, finalized on December 17, 2024, includes admissions of damaging federal property through his involvement in an unlawful cannabis operation.

Correa Cruz was apprehended in July 2022 during a coordinated search of a significant marijuana cultivation site within the Ventana Complex area of the Los Padres National Forest. This region is recognized for its biodiversity and houses numerous threatened and endangered species.

The investigation uncovered two cleared plots containing approximately 10,000 marijuana plants. Authorities also found a campsite with tents, sleeping bags, and substantial amounts of trash and animal remains. Hazardous materials were present on-site, including chemicals harmful to wildlife. An irrigation system was illegally diverting about 33,780 gallons of water daily from natural sources amid severe drought conditions.

United States Attorney Ismail J. Ramsey emphasized the environmental risks posed by such operations: "The illegal cultivation of marijuana on public land poses significant environmental risks to public lands and wildlife that must be combatted."

Brandon Robinson from the U.S. Forest Service highlighted their commitment: “Disrupting and dismantling the illegal cultivation of marijuana on federal lands remains a top priority... Our efforts would not have been possible without the strong cooperation of our partners.”

FBI Special Agent Robert Tripp stated: “Jacinto Correa Cruz helped poison the pristine lands... He now stands accountable for the damage that will take years to heal.”

Correa Cruz has been detained since August 22, 2022. His sentencing is set for March 4, 2025. He faces up to 20 years in prison per charge and fines reaching $1 million.

Assistant United States Attorney Anne C. Hsieh leads the prosecution with Sara Slattery's assistance following an investigation by USFS and FBI with support from California Department of Fish and Wildlife.