Mirna Velasco Tapia, Pesticide Violations, California 2021

Sacramento, CA – Mirna Velasco Tapia was sentenced in November 2020 and completed sentencing in 2021 after being apprehended with a cache of unapproved and illegal pesticides commonly used in illicit marijuana cultivation operations, according to court documents obtained by GrimyTimes. The case highlights a growing concern regarding the environmental impact and public health risks associated with illegal cannabis grows across the United States.

Federal authorities intercepted Tapia in April 2020 carrying four one-liter bottles of “Qufuran,” two one-liter bottles of “Biomec,” two 240 milliliter bottles of “Tetrasan,” and four 100-gram containers of “Rodentox” – all pesticides registered for use in Mexico, but not approved by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). These substances are frequently employed by individuals operating clandestine marijuana farms, often located on public lands and private properties without proper oversight.

The EPA’s criminal enforcement division has been increasingly focused on disrupting the supply chain of illegal pesticides used in these operations. These pesticides pose significant dangers to both the environment and human health. Unapproved pesticides can contaminate soil, water sources, and harm non-target species, including wildlife and beneficial insects. Residue on illegally grown marijuana also presents a direct health risk to consumers.

According to investigators, the use of these pesticides isn’t simply a matter of cost-cutting; it’s a deliberate attempt to circumvent regulations designed to protect the environment and public safety. Illicit growers often apply these chemicals at levels far exceeding recommended dosages, further exacerbating the risks. The clandestine nature of these grows makes tracking and remediating contamination particularly challenging.

Tapia was sentenced to pay a $1,000 fine, complete a three-year term of probation, and provide $1,200 in restitution to the EPA. The charges stem from violations of Title 18 U.S. Criminal Code, specifically 18 U.S.C. 371 (Conspiracy to Defraud the United States). This statute covers offenses involving attempts to obstruct or impede the lawful functions of a federal agency, in this case, the EPA’s regulatory authority over pesticides.

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Key Facts

Defendant: Mirna Velasco Tapia
State: California
Year of Sentencing: 2021
Crime: Possession and distribution of illegal pesticides for use in illicit marijuana grows.
Pesticides Seized: Qufuran, Biomec, Tetrasan, Rodentox (all Mexican-registered pesticides)
Violated Statute: 18 U.S.C. 371
Penalties: $1,000 fine, three years probation, $1,200 restitution to the EPA.

The EPA continues to collaborate with federal and state law enforcement agencies to investigate and prosecute individuals involved in the illegal pesticide trade. GrimyTimes will continue to follow this and other cases related to environmental crimes and the impact of illegal drug cultivation.

Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database

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