Over 800 pounds of meth seized after illegal dumping investigation uncovers large lab in Palmdale

PALMDALE, Calif. (KABC) -- An investigation into a possible illegal dumping incident in Palmdale Wednesday led authorities to dismantle a large clandestine methamphetamine laboratory, seize more than 800 pounds of the drug and arrest a suspect.

Palmdale Code Enforcement Officers were responding to a report of possible illegal dumping Wednesday when they discovered hundreds of pounds of methamphetamine.

That led to an investigation that uncovered what authorities described as a sophisticated methamphetamine manufacturing and distribution operation located near 110th Street East and Avenue M-8 in the unincorporated area of Lake Los Angeles.

Investigators from the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department's Narcotics Bureau and the Los Angeles Police Department carried out the enforcement action and seized crystal and liquid methamphetamine.

One suspect, identified as 22-year-old Alejandro Hernandez Gutierrez of Mexico, was arrested on suspicion of manufacturing a controlled substance.

LASD investigators obtained and served additional search warrants. The investigation remains ongoing.

"This case is a powerful example of the important work our Code Enforcement team does every day to protect Palmdale neighborhoods," said Mayor Eric Ohlsen in a statement. "What started as an illegal dumping investigation led to the removal of a massive amount of dangerous drugs from our community."

Authorities are asking anyone with information about the case to contact the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department Narcotics Bureau at (562) 946-7125.

Residents are also encouraged to report illegal dumping or suspicious property conditions to Palmdale Code Enforcement.