January 1, Lawmakers Unite Against Rising Illegal Chinese Marijuana Grows, Demand DOJ’s Intervention

A unified group of bipartisan lawmakers from Maine has taken an assertive stand against the alarming rise of illegal Chinese marijuana operations mushrooming across their state.

They’ve directly approached Attorney General Merrick Garland, seeking intervention from the Department of Justice (DOJ).

The Daily Caller News Foundation exclusively acquired an internal Border Patrol memo revealing that Maine’s law enforcement has pinpointed 270 properties suspected of housing illegal Chinese marijuana operations.

These operations, the memo states, can potentially pull in a staggering $4.37 billion in revenue.

Sen. Angus King (I), Sen. Susan Collins (R), Rep. Chellie Pingree (D), and Rep. Jared Golden (D) jointly penned a letter on Wednesday to Garland.

In the letter, they articulated their concerns and sought clarity on the DOJ’s strategies to tackle this burgeoning problem.

“These illegal growing operations are detrimental to Maine businesses that comply with State laws, and we urge the Department of Justice (DOJ) to shut them down,” the delegation expressed in their letter.

They further emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, “These reports of illegal growing operations within the state are alarming, and we are writing to request additional information about what the DOJ is doing to address this situation.”

The involvement of non-U.S. citizens in these shadowy operations is significant, as revealed by Penobscot County Sheriff Troy Morton, who recently partook in raiding one such operation.

“There are hundreds of these operations occurring throughout the state. It’s upsetting to those who live near these operations, and even those who are following Maine laws and procedures,” Morton highlighted.

Furthermore, the memo underscores that the immense profits churned out by these operations either fund criminal activities or flow straight to China.

It detailed, “According to the National Drug Threat Assessment (circa 2020)- profits associated with 100 cultivated plants could produce $5.4 Million; therefore if one property produces three cycles a year at 100 plants, that one property could make $16.2 Million in revenue where the funds are likely used for other criminal activities or are sent to China.”

The strategically placed Interstate 95 is suspected to be the primary conduit for the transportation of illicit narcotics, vast sums of cash, and illegal aliens associated with these grow operations.

The memo elucidates, “Based on location of the properties, it is assessed that I-95 is the main transport route for bulk cash, illegal narcotics, illegal aliens as this is the most desirable route throughout the state of Maine. I-95 begins in Miami, Florida, and ends near New Brunswick. This route enables smugglers through the many connecting routes which may allow access to many adjoining states.”

Maine’s tryst with marijuana has evolved over the years.

The residents voted in favor of legalizing it in 2016. Furthermore, medical marijuana use gained legal status in 1999 after its decriminalization in 1976.

By 2020, the recreational sale of marijuana was deemed legal. Current regulations allow Mainers aged 21 or above to cultivate up to three mature and 12 immature plants for personal use.

However, the DOJ has refrained from commenting on this escalating matter or the lawmakers’ letter.

As our loyal readers, we encourage you to share your thoughts and opinions on this issue. Let your voice be heard and join the discussion below.

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