Busting a pot farm: Behind the scenes

A whirlwind week for the I-Team, as Alex, Matt and George all helped us put on one of my favorite stories we’ve done: up close and personal with a pot bust on Mount Charleston.

Can't really get much closer

George was instrumental in getting this all set up. He has amazing sources within the law enforcement community and has contacts like none other. And being an incredible mentor, he’s let Alex and I learn so much and has shared tips and leads that have changed the course of our careers.

And the labor bore fruit. Err…pot.

But what was it actually like up in the canyon? Pretty wild, frankly. So we put together some extra footage, natural sound from the scene and a little “director’s commentary:”

Las Vegas had some rare rain and some perfect weather from my perspective. I was up at 4:30 and on the road at 6. Gorgeous.

Sunrise, sunset. Swiftly flow the days

After dealing with the low hanging clouds, the nasty climb (where poor Alex had to slow down and take a rest from time to time), we saw an amazing site. Row after row of plants, hacked and quickly wilting.

Piles upon piles

The agents found two men living at the site and the growers bolted. We had to wait a bit longer than expected at the base camp because the men were roaming loose, evading capture. Eventually they ran up into the clouds where ever the well-trained officers armed to the teeth couldn’t get them. Really shows you the perverse dedication the drug growers bring to the table. Or, camp site.

Long-term dedication

I was a bit surprised at the tactical focus of the operation. Each man had body armor, multiple firearms and communication systems. Which led to an awesome natural moment and Mise-en-scène: 

It's like resting on a cloud

All of the agents were amazing, inviting and a lot of fun. It was great to see a scene unfold and have access with law enforcement I have never had before. Up at 6AM, home at 11:30PM.  Probably my favorite shoot of all time.

I may be soaking wet, but I has a happy