Exposed: Kenosha authorities uncover massive marijuana grow operation

KENOSHA (WITI) -- Kenosha County authorities uncovered on Monday, May 12th, a sophisticated, indoor marijuana grow operation.

Members of the Kenosha Drug Operations Group (KDOG) executed a search warrant on 29-year-old Eric Bonilla's home on 116th St. in the Town of Randall. In a small, hidden area of the basement, officials say they discovered a massive marijuana operation.

"Did a good job of keeping this under wraps for a long period of time.  Now he's got a record.  Now he's in jail," said Sheriff Beth.



Investigators say Bonilla allegedly used hydroponics -- a method of growing plants in water -- to yield 36 pounds of weed, bagged and ready to be sold. That has a street value of $145,000. Investigators also pulled 45 mature marijuana plants from the home valued at $45,000.

Sheriff Beth said marijuana is a problem in Kenosha County. He says drug use is often associated with other problems in the county, like domestic violence -- which is why KDOG takes an aggressive approach to busts like this one.

"We're looking for you. And the neighborhoods. If you know of someone in you believe is selling drugs out of their house - let us know. Let our drug unit know," said Sheriff Beth.

On Thursday, May 15th, KODG submitted three felony charges and one misdemeanor charge to the Kenosha County District Attorney's Office.