Public Help Needed to Identify Cannabis Plots & Suspicious Activity

Carmi, IL – The Carmi-based Southern Illinois Drug Task Force (SIDTF) is working tirelessly to identify illegal cannabis plant grow operations in farm crop areas and is seeking the public’s assistance to identify criminals.  Traditionally, during the farming season, the SIDTF Agents see an increase in criminal activity to cultivate cannabis plants, especially in the rural areas of the counties where they are hidden among legitimate crop fields. 

Cannabis grow operations are one of the leading cash crops in Illinois.  In 2011, the Illinois State Police seized over 13,100 plants, totaling more than 109,000 grams of cannabis resulting in 151 arrests.

The Illinois State Police strongly encourages the public to report suspicious activity about these illegal growing operations to local law enforcement.  SIDTF Agents also want to warn the public about destroying suspected cannabis plants or confronting suspicious individuals nearby any cannabis plant locations.

Law enforcement officials are asking the public for any information of suspected cannabis plants, as well as descriptions of persons or vehicles seen in the area of cannabis grow operations.

Anyone with information should contact should contact SIDTF at 618-382-4606, Extension 210. Callers may remain anonymous while providing information pertaining to suspicious drug activity.