12 arrested in cartel bust

Last week, the Butte County Sheriff’s Office arrested 12 people they believe to be associated with a Mexican drug cartel operating in rural Brush Creek.

Detectives with BCSO’s Special Enforcement Unit were serving search warrants at three properties along Bonnie Meadow Lane on Nov. 18, when they discovered more than 1,000 marijuana plants, hundreds of pounds of processed pot, assault rifles and almost $15,000 cash, according to a press release.

Roberto Estrada and Nestor Ortiz were arrested on charges of maintaining a residence for drug sales and possession of marijuana for sale. Ten others face charges for cultivation. The investigation is ongoing.