What began as a response to a house fire in the 1800 block of Ashwood Lane led Aurora police officers and firefighters to uncover a large cannabis grow operation inside the residence.
On Saturday at approximately 7:23am, Aurora police and fire personnel responded to a report of a structure fire the residence on Ashwood Lane. When officers and firefighters arrived, they observed small flames near the front entrance and siding damage from the heat. The Aurora Fire Department quickly extinguished the fire before it could spread through the home.
While investigating the source of the fire, firefighters observed signs of a cannabis grow operation in the basement and alerted responding officers. A protective sweep confirmed a large number of cannabis plants, grow lights, and altered electrical equipment inside the home.
Aurora police detained the two residents — the 32-year-old homeowner, and his 20-year-old male roommate.
A search warrant was obtained later that day. During the warrant execution, investigators seized 330 cannabis plants; 23,586 grams of cannabis (just under 52 pounds; does not include additional jars and containers still pending final weight); drug packaging materials and equipment; and numerous cell phones.
Following interviews, Kane County prosecutors authorized felony charges against the owner, including Manufacture/Delivery of Cannabis – More than 5,000 grams (a Class X Felony); Producing or Possessing More Than 200 Cannabis Plants (a Class 1 Felony); and Possession of Cannabis – More than 5,000 grams (a Class 1 Felony).
The 20-year-old male roommate was released without charges.
“This case shows how routine calls for service can uncover far more serious threats,” said Aurora Police Chief Matt Thomas. “I want to commend both our officers and firefighters for working together to not only stop a fire from spreading, but also to safely dismantle a large-scale illegal operation that posed a risk to the entire area.”
The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to call the Aurora Police Department’s Investigations Division at (630) 256-5500.
