On December 15, 2017 members of the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Unit executed a search warrant for a residence located on Disston Avenue in Punta Gorda. The residence was located after a traffic stop by the Lee County Sheriff’s Office spurred an investigation by CCSO Narcotics Detectives.
The occupants of the residence, Lazaro Banos (12/17/68) and Jacqueline Cartwright-Banos (6/08/64) were secured and later interviewed. A juvenile and a special needs adult were also located inside. All of the subjects were interviewed during the investigation.
During a search of an unattached structure next to the main residence, a marijuana cultivation operation was discovered. Seized in the warrant were $2,370 in US Currency (subject to forfeiture), 21 mature marijuana plants (total weight 221.4 pounds), 31 marijuana clone plants, 10 small marijuana plants, and over 72 grams of bagged marijuana. Cultivation equipment was also impounded for evidence.
Lazaro Banos was arrested on multiple charges related to the manufacture of marijuana. Department of Children and Families was also notified in regards to the juvenile and special needs individual living within the residence.
The Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office aggressively pursues tips related to illegal drug sales and manufacturing. Tips can be emailed to the Narcotics Unit at narcoticsunit@ccsofl.net or called in to 941-575-5361. Tips can also be provided anonymously to Southwest Florida Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-780-TIPS.