In a recent crackdown, California authorities seized a staggering $68.5 million in illegal cannabis, marking a significant blow to the illicit weed market in the Golden State.
This operation, carried out by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife in conjunction with the state’s Unified Cannabis Enforcement Taskforce, targeted unlicensed commercial cultivation sites across several locations, reported KTLA 5.
What Happened: Over a three-day period from July 11 to 13, a total of 24 search warrants were executed, uncovering unlawful cannabis growing operations in Northern California's Siskiyou County.
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Illegal sites were found in Whitney Creek, Harry Cash and Shasta Vistas areas. The crackdown was a part of the state's effort to disrupt and dismantle the thriving illegal cannabis market.
In the course of this operation, authorities confiscated:
- 67,045 illicit cannabis plants
- Approximately 8,019.75 pounds of unlawfully processed cannabis, with an estimated value of $68.5 million
- Additionally, a dozen firearms were seized as well.
The gravity of the situation was further underscored by the discovery of suspected environmental violations linked to these unlicensed cultivation sites. The illegal use of toxic chemicals and pesticides raised concerns not only for the ecological balance of the region but also for the health and safety of individuals who may come into contact with these substances.
“These dangerous chemicals not only degrade California’s natural resources but also endanger workers and others exposed to them,” said officials.
The Unified Cannabis Enforcement Taskforce, established in 2022, serves as a coalition of local, state, and federal partners committed to dismantling the illegal cannabis market.
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Gov. Gavin Newsom reiterated the state's stance. “California is taking immediate and aggressive action to stop illegal cannabis and strengthen the burgeoning legal market throughout the state. By shutting down illegal grow sites and applying serious consequences to offenders, we are working to curtail the criminal organizations that are undercutting the regulated cannabis market in California.”
If you are interested to know more about the cannabis-related landscape not just in California but also in other states, consider joining us at the 17th edition of the Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference, which is returning to Chicago on Sept 27-28. Get your tickets today before prices increase and secure a spot at the epicenter of cannabis investment and branding.
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