Fresno City Attorney Andrew Janz released photos Thursday taken from a raid of a Fresno private golf club for suspected illegal cannabis activity.

Another Fresno business has been raided as part of an ongoing illegal cannabis investigation.

AOA Private Golf Club at 1817 N. Helm Ave. near Fresno Yosemite International Airport was served a search warrant Thursday by City Attorney Andrew Janz’s code enforcement division along with the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration and Department of Cannabis Control.

Investigators said they discovered thousands of dollars worth of illegal cannabis, cannabis products and paraphernalia.

 

According to a City of Fresno news release, it is believed the suspected illegal operation has been happening for a significant amount of time.

The AOA website, which lists Robert Protzman III as president, describes the business as a “family friendly” place for serious golfers to use high-tech golf simulators and access instruction, equipment and other services. It also hosts pay-per-view sports events and private parties. It features a full bar and food options.

The investigation is ongoing and no arrests have been made at this time.

Investigators seized items that could be eligible for state or local asset forfeiture programs once the investigation is complete.

Photos released from the raid include cannabis edibles packaged similarly to popular consumer brands, including cookies labeled “Trips Ahoy!” There is also cannabis flower in jars and other smoking products arranged in display cases.

“The City of Fresno will continue to work with our State partners to target illegal cannabis operations that hurt our legal cannabis industry. This latest raid shows that illegal and illicit activities are occurring in all areas of our community, including places that appear reputable at first glance,” said Fresno City Attorney Andrew Janz.

In 2023 Janz and Attorney General Rob Bonta announced the formation of the Cannabis Administrative Prosecution Program targeting illegal retail cannabis operations in the city.

Dozens of illegal operations in the city have been shut down since the program was created.