Title: CHP Seizes 13 Firearms and 10,000 Rounds of Ammunition at Hidden Marijuana Grow Site
Introduction
In a recent operation, the California Highway Patrol (CHP) discovered a hidden marijuana grow site that also contained a large cache of firearms and ammunition. The raid, conducted in the rural outskirts of Los Angeles County, yielded 13 firearms, 30 high-capacity magazines, and roughly 10,000 rounds of ammunition. This article provides a detailed account of the operation, the legal implications, and the broader context of drug-firearms nexus investigations.
The Operation
The operation combined illegal marijuana cultivation with a large firearms cache. A hidden bunker accessed via a 100-foot tunnel was found to be fully equipped for drug production. The raid seized 13 firearms, 30 high-capacity magazines, and roughly 10,000 rounds of ammunition. Michael Jay Kamfolt faced multiple weapons charges and was no longer in custody as of Tuesday. CHP’s investigation began after a tip in December 2025 and involved aerial surveillance and a month-long probe before the raid on Jan. 20. Michael Jay Kamfolt was booked on several weapons-related charges, including possession of an assault rifle, possession of a firearm with an altered serial number, and manufacturing a ghost gun.
Legal Context
Under federal law, possession of a firearm by a person with a drug-related conviction is a felony. The seized firearms were traced to a distributor in Arizona, raising questions about interstate trafficking. The CHP is coordinating with the FBI, DEA, and local police to investigate related suspects.
Community Impact
Community leaders in Anderson have expressed concerns over the potential for similar hidden operations in the region. Local officials urged the CHP to maintain vigilance and to share intelligence with other agencies to prevent future threats. The case also highlights the necessity for increased resources for drug and firearms investigations, as well as for public education on the dangers of illicit grow sites.
California’s Response
California has seen a rise in illegal grow sites in recent years, many of which are located near rural or suburban areas. The CHP has intensified its focus on these sites, working closely with the FBI, DEA, and local police to disrupt both drug and firearms trafficking.
Key Takeaways
- The operation combined illegal marijuana cultivation with a large firearms cache.
- A hidden bunker accessed via a 100-foot tunnel was fully equipped for drug production.
- The raid seized 13 firearms, 30 high-capacity magazines, and roughly 10,000 rounds of ammunition.
- Michael Jay Kamfolt faced multiple weapons charges and was no longer in custody as of Tuesday.
- CHP’s investigation began after a tip in December 2025 and involved aerial surveillance and a month-long probe before the raid on Jan. 20.
Conclusion
The findings underscore the necessity for continuous monitoring of rural properties suspected of illicit activities and the importance of interagency collaboration to safeguard communities. Authorities will continue to investigate related suspects and remain vigilant public.
