Arrest in Naperville Leads Police to $1.2 Million Chicago Cannabis Operation

The arrest of a 32-year-old Chicago man led Naperville police to a nearly $1.2 million cannabis operation inside a Chicago home Thursday. 

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Naperville Police Department's Special Operations Group discovered a "sophisticated" cannabis growing operation with more than 300 mature cannabis plants after conducting a search in the 3200 block of North Oleander in Chicago, according to the Naperville Police Department.

The cannabis found inside the home has a street value of $1,197,800. 

The discovery stemmed from an investigation after police arrested Ronald Carlos Sanchez, 32, of the 3200 block of North Oleander in Chicago, at 4:07 p.m. Thursday near East Diehl Road and Freedom Drive in Naperville.

In DuPage County, Sanchez was charged with unlawful delivery of cannabis 30-500 grams, a Class 3 felony, police said.

Police also discovered several large plastic bins of processed cannabis during the search of the Chicago home. 

In Cook County, Sanchez was charged with production of cannabis plants, a Class 1 felony, and possession with intent to deliver, a Class X felony. He was transported to DuPage County Jail.

The arrest comes just two days after Naperville police conducted the largest methamphetamine bust in DuPage County during a routine traffic stop in Naperville.

In a press release, Naperville Police Chief Robert Marshall thanked the DuPage and Cook counties State’s Attorney’s offices for their assistance during the investigation.

Sanchez's court date is unknown at this time.