U.S. Attorney Bob Troyer, the top federal prosecutor in Colorado, has vowed that his office will take firm action against any legal marijuana business that acts as a front for illegal activity, such as selling marijuana on the black market.
Some growers in various states who are faced with excess production are alleged to have resorted to selling that extra produce to the illegal marijuana market rather than see that cannabis go to waste when the legal market cannot buy it all. Such firms are the next target of enforcement efforts.
The attorney revealed that his office had mainly focused its resources on weeding out those who grow marijuana illegally in forests and in their homes. Legal businesses engaged in illegal activities were now on the radar of the federal prosecutor and the label “compliant with state laws” would not suffice to protect any firm found to be breaking the law.
Troyer added that the interest of the federal prosecutor was in the safety of the public. State laws often address those concerns, but federal laws may be invoked in some cases. Marijuana is still illegal at the federal level.
The spokeswoman for Governor John Hickenlooper responded to Troyer’s statement by saying the state authorities have always enjoyed a good relationship with the feds and they are equally concerned about the safety issues raised.
The spokeswoman added that the state will continue to enforce the law, including criminal enforcement, in case justification exists for such action.
Members of the legal marijuana industry have asked the authorities to identify and root out those breaking the law without putting unnecessary pressure on licensed firms who are following the strict letter of the law under which they operate. They also advised that the authorities discuss any concerns that they may have with the legal cannabis industry instead of taking unilateral action that may be detrimental to all concerned.
Troyer revealed that his office will soon take action against a dispensary chain in the Denver area in the coming days. The name of the targeted dispensary chain was not disclosed in his statement.
It appears that the blitz against cannabis businesses breaking the law will mark the final stages of Troyer’s stay in office since Jason Dunn was selected earlier in June to replace him. Dunn’s nomination is awaiting senate approval before he can take office. Troyer has been in office since 2016 when his predecessor resigned.
Companies like Green Hygienics Holdings Inc. (OTC: GRYN) and GreenBox POS, LLC (OTC: GRBX) must be happy that broader action is being taken to wipe out illegal cannabis activity since it affects the operations of the legitimate businesses in the industry.
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