Deputies shutter illegal dispensaries in Spring Valley, Casa de Oro

Authorities shut down three allegedly unlawful cannabis dispensaries Thursday in Casa de Oro and Spring Valley, boarding up the businesses and seizing their stock.

Deputies and county code-compliance officers served abatement and search warrants shortly before 8 a.m. at businesses on Dolores Street, Elkelton Boulevard and Paraiso Avenue, according to sheriff’s officials.

The enforcement actions “were the direct result of numerous complaints from concerned citizens,” Sgt. Matt Cook said in a statement.

During the raids, the personnel seized over 140 pounds of cannabis, edible products containing the drug, paraphernalia, cash and business equipment, authorities said. One employee was arrested and jailed on suspicion of illegally possessing and selling cannabis.

The code-enforcement personnel secured the sites by boarding up all entry doors to the businesses, Cook said.

In March 2017, the County Board of Supervisors banned marijuana businesses in all unincorporated areas in San Diego County, though two existing medicinal-cannabis dispensaries — one near El Cajon and another in Ramona — were granted waivers allowing them to operate for five more years before closing.

“The county anticipates continued compliance as we enforce the securing of structures without a permitted use,” Cook said.