Multi-agency raid tied to Modesto, Turlock seizes 2,700 pounds of meth, officials say
A sweeping multi-agency narcotics investigation that included search warrants in Modesto and Turlock resulted in the seizure of roughly 2,700 pounds of methamphetamine and the arrest of eight people, authorities announced this week.
The enforcement action, carried out Feb. 27, marked the culmination of a five-month investigation led by the Calaveras County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Enforcement Unit in coordination with federal, state and local partners.
Investigators said authorities seized approximately 1,500 pounds of finished methamphetamine and about 1,270 pounds of suspected methamphetamine in a partially processed state, pending laboratory confirmation. Law enforcement officials also reported seizing 1,900 marijuana plants, about 107 pounds of processed marijuana and 12 firearms.
Search warrants were executed at residential properties in Valley Springs in Calaveras County, as well as in Turlock and Modesto. More than 100 law enforcement personnel participated in the coordinated operation, according to the sheriff’s office.
Eight individuals were taken into federal and state custody. Authorities said one of those arrested was listed on the National Terrorist Watch List. Officials have not yet released the names of those arrested or detailed the specific charges they may face.
According to investigators, the case — dubbed “Operation Trash Panda” — targeted what authorities described as a drug trafficking organization suspected of manufacturing and distributing methamphetamine throughout Northern California.
The investigation began in October 2025 after deputies responded to an illegal dumping complaint in a remote area of Calaveras County. Detectives said suspicious materials discovered at the site prompted a follow-up investigation that ultimately identified primary suspects and three locations believed to be tied to the suspected manufacturing and distribution operation.
The Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office played what Calaveras officials described as a major leadership role, providing manpower and deploying a helicopter to assist with coordination and safety during the warrant service.
Participating agencies included the Drug Enforcement Administration, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, the Sacramento Area Intelligence Narcotics Team, the Merced Area Gang and Narcotics Enforcement Team, High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas, the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation and others.
The Calaveras County District Attorney’s Office and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of California are reviewing the case to determine appropriate state and/or federal charges.
Authorities described the seizure as the largest methamphetamine seizure in the history of the Calaveras County Sheriff’s Office. The investigation remains ongoing, and additional arrests or charges may be forthcoming.
This story was originally published March 2, 2026 at 4:54 PM.
