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Greed and Tragedy: The Deadly Consequences of an Illegal Cannabis Operation

In a grim case that underscores the dangers of the illicit drug trade, six individuals have been charged following a multi-agency investigation into a deadly illegal cannabis operation. The probe, dubbed “Operation Sugar Diamond,” links the defendants to two separate explosions that killed a total of five workers in Los Angeles County.

Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman didn't mince words, stating, “This case shows the deadly and disastrous results when illegal cannabis operations recklessly put greed over the safety of their employees and neighbors.” His message is clear: while cannabis is legal in California, dangerous, unregulated activity like this will be met with the full force of the law.

The Charges and the Accused
At the center of the case are Ted Chien (52) and his partner Han Quan Jiao (54). Chien faces the most serious charges, including five counts of murder with special circumstances, which could lead to a sentence of life without parole or even the death penalty. Jiao is also charged with murder, arson, and other offenses, and could face life in prison.

The other four defendants—Xiaolong Deng (36), Chengyan Xu (61), Christopher Reyes (30), and Frank Herrera (34)—are charged with conspiracy and manufacturing a controlled substance, facing potential prison sentences of up to eight years and eight months.

A Trail of Destruction
The investigation began after a massive explosion at an Irwindale warehouse on October 9, 2023, killed four employees: Yi Luo, Xin Chen, Guangqi Fu, and Quizhuo Liang. Authorities believe the facility was being used by Chien and Jiao for illegal "honey oil" extraction.

Just over a year later, tragedy struck again. On November 18, 2024, another lab in South El Monte, also allegedly run by the pair, caught fire, killing a fifth employee, Bordin “Tony” Sikarin.

Despite these horrific events, Chien and Jiao allegedly continued their operation. The other defendants are accused of working for the duo, producing and transporting the illegal concentrated cannabis. The case came to a head this week when more than 150 law enforcement agents conducted raids at nine locations across the county.

These are just allegations at this point, and the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty. However, the charges send a powerful message about the deadly risks involved in illegal drug manufacturing. The arraignment for the six defendants is scheduled for today.
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