http://kushsmoke.com

For the third time in the past week, a suspended license led to a marijuana bust–but this one had far bigger implications than the petty apprehensions of Suge Knight and this other schmohawk. In Los Angeles late last Thursday, the LAPD struck herbal gold when they pulled over Harry Kaladjian at 2 am.

Since Kaladjian was on “active” probation, the police–without needing a warrant–headed over to Kaladjian’s house and stumbled into a relatively big time cannabis enterprise. Here’s the sheriff’s statement:

Once inside the home, they found a sophisticated marijuana growing operation.

Several rooms inside the home had been converted into growing areas, complete with planting beds and artificial lighting. The deputies recovered approximately 800 plants in various stages of growth. They also recovered several large plastic bags full of processed marijuana.

In addition to the marijuana growing operation, the deputies also found a “hash oil” processing area.

In total, over a million dollars worth of weed were found, and seven of Kaladjian’s friends/acquaintances/accomplishes were also cuffed in what is an ongoing investigation. From the details, it’s unclear as to if these entrepreneurs were selling their bud on the street or to dispsensaries, but I suspect some combination of the two.

What is clear is that they were growing a shitload of bud and making concentrates with the trimmings. Concentrates are extremely profitable (and a little bid dangerous) to produce–so it’s not the least bit surprising that a grow this size was manufacturing a lot of concentrate. And after experience this weekend’s Cannabis Cup, the demand for concentrates may actually be higher than the demand for flower in Southern California.

What I don’t understand: if you have enough capital to fund a million dollar grow operation, what business do you have driving around at 2 am with a suspended license?

[LA Weekly]