DCC Has Seized $1 Billion in Illegal Cannabis in the Past Year

California’s Department of Cannabis Control announced Aug. 25 that it has seized more than $1 billion worth of illegal cannabis over the past 13 months.

“This important milestone was reached through close collaboration with local, state, and federal partners and furthers California’s efforts to go after activities that harm communities and the environment, including water theft, threats of violence, elder abuse, and human trafficking to name a few. These operations and the products they produce threaten consumer safety and the vitality of legal and compliant licensees,” DCC Director Nicole Elliott said.

Recent operations in Los Angeles and Riverside Counties pushed seizures over the $1 billion mark. The past 13 months have yielded 232 search warrants, over half a million pounds of illegal product seized, and the eradication of over 1.4 million cannabis plants. Raids have also resulted in the seizure of 120 illegal firearms and $2.3 million in illegal assets.

“These enforcement activities are important in eliminating unfair competition, protecting natural resources, and safeguarding our communities. However, this represents only one part of California’s larger strategy to help create a safe, sustainable, and equitable legal cannabis market,” added Elliott.

“In tandem with law enforcement actions that crack down on illegal activity, DCC staff are working to expand access to tested cannabis products for consumers and lower barriers of participation for businesses. This includes a recent allocation of $20 million to DCC to grant cities and counties with funding that will support the creation of cannabis retail access in areas that currently do not allow it.”