Two Lehigh Acres residents have been arrested after the houses in which they were living in was raided by the Lee County Sheriff’s Office on Monday, April 11 when the Narcotics Unit and Bravo SSET converged first on a home at 704 Fargo Drive in Lehigh.

A search warrant was served after information was developed that the residence was being used to cultivate marijuana. No one was home at the time of the raid, however, a grow operation was uncovered. A total of 73 marijuana plants with an estimated street value of $146,000.00 were seized. The associated lighting and equipment were also confiscated as a result of the investigation.

A second grow house was identified and units arrived at 122 Teakwood Drive, also in Lehigh Acres, around 12:30 a.m. One man could be seen inside the home. Attempts to get the occupant to answer the door or respond were unsuccessful. Meanwhile, detectives could smell and observe indicators the house was being used to cultivate marijuana. A search warrant was obtained, authorities said.

The Sheriff’s Office Special Operations Unit (SWAT team) responded to the scene to assist in serving the warrant and safely removed any occupants.

Despite verbal orders, via loudspeaker, no one would come outside or acknowledge the presence of the assembled deputies. Members of the Special Operations Unit entered the home, located two individuals and secured them without further incident shortly before 5 a.m.

The investigation culminated with the discovery of 25 marijuana plants with an estimated street value of $50,000.

Lights, electrical ballasts, fans and an irrigation system were located in the garage and dismantled, authorities said.

Arrested were:

? Carlos Alberto Suarez, 28, of 122 Teakwood Drive, Lehigh Acres, charged with one count each of marijuana cultivation; trafficking in marijuana; and, possession of drug paraphernalia.

? Alain Jose Fuentes-Sanchez, 35, of 122 Teakwood Drive, Lehigh Acres, charged with one count each of marijuana cultivation; trafficking in marijuana; and possession of drug paraphernalia.