I'd like to see the data on how many pot farms that sell to these Dispensaries around here are Chinese owned. Drugs are all good if the government can make money off of it.
Not sure, but an AI search resulted in this.
Scope of operations
Illegal cannabis operations run by Chinese organized crime have been identified in dozens of states across the country, particularly in rural areas with cheap land.
Widespread presence: Reports from law enforcement and investigative journalists confirm that these illicit grows have been found from California and Oregon to Oklahoma, New Mexico, and Maine.
Operating in legal states: Criminal groups exploit states with legal cannabis industries by creating illicit "black market" operations that bypass regulations. They have also established farms in states where marijuana remains illegal.
Funding and personnel: The farms are often funded by Chinese investors and staffed with undocumented Chinese immigrants who are victims of human trafficking. Some operations involve collaboration with Mexican cartels.
Criminal activities and impact
In addition to growing and distributing marijuana, these illicit operations are associated with a variety of other criminal enterprises.
Human trafficking and forced labor
Workers, often vulnerable Chinese immigrants, are lured to the U.S. with false promises of legitimate work.
Once at the grow sites, their passports are confiscated, and they are forced to work long hours under deplorable conditions.
The workers are frequently denied proper food, water, and wages.
Environmental damage
Illegal growers often divert scarce water supplies, harming local fish and other wildlife.
Sites use toxic, banned pesticides and fertilizers from China, which contaminate soil, water, and air.
The chemicals pose immediate health risks to law enforcement, and contamination can linger for years after a site is dismantled.
Money laundering and financial crimes
Illegal proceeds are laundered through various methods, including the Chinese underground banking system.
Criminals often purchase real estate for their grow houses using cash, sometimes with fake paperwork or "straw owners" to disguise their identities.
Law enforcement response and concerns
Federal, state, and local authorities are struggling to combat the proliferation of these sophisticated criminal networks, which often overwhelm local law enforcement.
Investigation challenges
Investigations are complicated by language barriers and the use of encrypted communication apps like WeChat.
The networks are adept at adapting their tactics and relocating to new areas after being exposed.
National security threats
Members of Congress have raised concerns that these illicit operations pose a national security threat, especially when located near military bases.
Some officials believe the criminal networks may be linked to or supported by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).
The criminal networks are involved in a broader range of illicit activities, including drug trafficking and weapons smuggling, which pose significant public safety risks.
