Maine Delegation Calls for Closure of Illegal Chinese Marijuana Grows
Maine’s congressional delegation has sent a joint letter to U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland, urging him to take action against 270 properties in the state that are allegedly linked to illegal Chinese marijuana grows. This comes in response to a leaked government memo that detailed the extent of Chinese operations in Maine, estimating potential revenue of over $4 billion. The memo suggested that the profits from these illicit sites are likely being funneled into other criminal activities or sent back to China.
The bipartisan delegation, comprising U.S. Sens. Susan Collins and Angus King, as well as U.S. Reps. Chellie Pingree and Jared Golden, raised several questions for the Justice Department to address. They inquired about the origin of the memo, when the information was first obtained, and the government’s response to it. Additionally, they sought information on the measures being taken to tackle illegal growing operations, especially those involving foreign governments or entities. The delegation also requested details on how the profits are being returned to China and whether the Justice Department is aware of any foreign involvement in these growing operations.
While marijuana has been legalized for medical and recreational use in Maine, it remains federally illegal, creating a gray area for its cultivation in certain states. Personal cultivation of marijuana is permitted in Maine, but penalties exist for growing large amounts outside the regulated systems. Last month, four individuals were arrested on felony cultivation charges after authorities discovered thousands of plants and processed marijuana in Carmel.
Maine’s Governor, Janet Mills, expressed concerns about unregulated and illicit marijuana operations, highlighting the threats they pose to community safety, licensed businesses, and consumers. The Governor’s office pledged to support federal officials in prosecuting and dismantling illegal drug activities in the state.
The Office of Attorney General Aaron Frey also emphasized its commitment to addressing the illegal marijuana market through regulation and collaboration with law enforcement. However, the office declined to comment on the specific sites mentioned in the leaked memo or confirm the existence of any ongoing investigation.
The leaked memo, obtained by the Daily Caller, drew from federal and public databases. It included a spreadsheet identifying the 270 properties in Maine allegedly associated with Chinese marijuana grows, although the specifics were not disclosed by the news outlet.
The Maine delegation’s request to the U.S. Attorney General reflects their concern about the impact of these illegal growing operations on the legitimate cannabis industry in the state. They await a response from the Justice Department to address the pressing questions surrounding this issue.
