Location: 2100 Block of S. Hall, Visalia

Incident Date: 03/10/2015

Incident Time: 0800

Case Number: 15-60603

Victim: State of California

Posted by: Media Relations

S1: Nicolas Alcala (47yrs)

Charges: 11358HS, 498(b)PC

On March 10, 2015 Detectives from the Tulare County Sheriff Department’s STEP Team served a narcotics search warrant in the 2100 block of S. Hall in Visalia. Detectives contacted Nicolas Alcala, 47 of Visalia who had set up a sophisticated indoor marijuana growing operation within the garage of the residence. Detectives located 69 marijuana plants which were being grown within the converted garage. Alcala did not have a valid medical marijuana recommendation. During the investigation, it was discovered that Alcala had also been stealing electricity in support of the grow room. The theft of electricity was estimated by Edison to be in excess of $35,000.00 over a three year period.  

Had the marijuana been allowed to be harvested, it would have had a street value of over $155,250.00. Alcala was taken into custody pursuant to the illegal cultivation of marijuana and theft of utilities.

The case remains under investigation by the Sheriff Department’s STEP Team.  Anyone with information is encouraged to call Detective B. VanCuren at (559) 733-6218. Information can also be given and will remain anonymous through tcso@tipnow.com.