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Thumb Narcotics Unit, aided by Michigan State Police Aviation, Michigan National Guard, and police officers from Lapeer City, North Branch, Almont, Caseville and Caro, dismantled numerous marijuana growing operations in Lapeer and Tuscola counties. Operation HEMP (Help Eliminate Marijuana Production) ended Thursday following stings from officers on foot, led by sightings from a helicopter.

"The crews were hard charging, and we had a lot of help from the different agencies," said TNU Commander D/Lt. Mark Opra. "It was a cooperative effort between law enforcement."

Many concerned people saw the helicopters and phoned 9-1-1 to find out if they were in danger. TNU flies over each year in a helicopter to spot illegal fields of weed during the harvest season. The dates can't be released in advance because the agency doesn't want to warn the criminals.

"Once people knew what we were doing up there, we received a lot of calls from the public who provided information," said Opra. "They gave us other areas to look. We had a lot of help that lead directly to growing operations."

More than 700 marijuana plants were seized from both indoor and outdoor sites. Officers confiscated 35 long guns, six handguns, one sub-machine gun and an undisclosed amount of cash from more than 14 residences. Two subjects were arrested on outstanding warrants. TNU is seeking warrants for 16 suspects, ranging in age from early 30s to late 60s.

Most of the targeted growing operations in the sting could be linked to specific persons. Often marijuana is randomly planted in a farm field and the origins are unknown to the landowner or police. A few were found in the middle of a swamp, and police just pulled them.

All the suspects were surprised, but cooperative, said Opra.

"We saw one guy who was watching us, standing by a field," said Opra. "He knew what we were doing. As we made a turn around in the helicopter, he must of thought we couldn't see him. He'd run, pull out a plant and try to hide it. It was kind of funny."

The largest growing operation was found in Tuscola County with about 200 plants and equipment nabbed. Large fields were also eradicated in both the North Branch Township and Attica Township areas.

There are other stings planned for this year, but TNU is not releasing the dates. To report suspected drug operations, phone TNU at (989) 286-6452.

Susan Younger may be reached at (810)664-0811, ext. 8122 or susan.younger@lapeergroup.com.