On December 28, 2022, the Oregon State Police, Drug Enforcement Section, Northwest Region Marijuana Team (OSP NWR MJ) served search warrants at two locations near Aumsville and one location in South Salem. Investigators with NWR MJ began the investigation after receiving neighborhood complaints and were able to determine the suspects moved to Oregon to grow illicit marijuana. During the search warrant operation, investigators found 2,578 marijuana plants, 53 pounds of processed marijuana, and over $5000.00 in proceeds. Four houses had been heavily modified and most, if not all, rooms were being used to grow marijuana. An 11-year-old juvenile was staying at one residence. Officers concerned with the juvenile’s access to chemicals used in the grow operation and with health and life-safety issues associated with mold, blocked exit doors, and unpermitted, over-loaded, electrical systems, contacted the Oregon Department of Human Services, Office of Child Welfare. Mr. Bin Dong, (40) of Salem, and Mr. Bin Bin Huang, (31) of Aumsville were lodged at the Marion County Jail and charged with: ORS 475C.349, Unlawful Manufacture of Marijuana Item; ORS 475C.337, Unlawful Possession of Marijuana Item; Oregon Laws Chapter 542 (2021), Sect. 41, Unlawful Production of Marijuana; ORS 164.170 – Laundering a Monetary Instrument ORS 164.172 – Engaging in a financial transaction in property derived from unlawful activity; ORS 161.450 – Criminal Conspiracy to commit the aforementioned crimes. Charges for Mrs. Yu Chen, (40) of Sacramento, CA will be referred to the Marion County District Attorney’s Office. NWR MJ was assisted in the operation by, the Linn Interagency Narcotics Enforcement Team, and the Marion County Sheriff’s Office.
