The Columbian / Associated Press

Renton police bust illegal marijuana grow operation

RENTON — Renton police say about 60 local and federal law enforcement officers raided eight homes in Seattle and Renton to bust an organized criminal marijuana growing operation.

Thursday’s raid was the result of a two-month investigation.

Inside the homes, investigators found more than 3,000 marijuana plants and about 150 pounds of processed marijuana. They also found sophisticated growing and processing equipment.

Police recovered about $440,000 in cash and a handgun. They seized eight vehicles, including two luxury SUV’s.

Police say the value of the marijuana alone was estimated to exceed $2 million.

Several people were detained during the raid and two men were arrested in connection with running the operation.