By Nisqually Valley News staff

Officers with the enforcement and education division of Washington’s Liquor and Cannabis Board (LCB) seized 1,300 pounds of cannabis from businesses located in Roy and Tacoma.

A news release from LCB, stated the investigation into unlicensed cannabis sales took them to Red Barn Trading Post in Roy and Vincere’s Compassion Club in Tacoma.

The source of the seized cannabis is currently under investigation, stated the release.

The investigation stemmed from multiple complaints from the public. Undercover officers with LCB purchased illegal cannabis from the two unlicensed cannabis retailers. 

“Under state law, cannabis may only be sold by a business holding a state issued cannabis license,” stated the release.

The undercover officers made three buys of cannabis at both of the stores. At the Roy store, located at 34011 state Route 507 S., undercover purchases of illicit substances of psilocybin mushrooms and peyote were also made, stated the release.

Officers obtained search warrants for both the Tacoma and Roy businesses and executed the search warrants late last month. 

“Altogether, the officers located and seized approximately 1,300 pounds of cannabis products at the stores, including a large quantity of cannabis concentrates and cannabis-infused edible products being offered for sale,” stated the release. “Many of the cannabis-infused products would have been illegal to sell in the regulated marketplace, including products exceeding THC serving size limits and products that are especially appealing to children. Both locations were also operating illegal cannabis ‘clubs.’”

At Red Barn Trading Post, the release stated officers “seized approximately 400 pounds of illicit cannabis products, a sizeable amount of psilocybin, peyote products, cash, electronic and surveillance equipment, and four firearms.” 

Two uncooperative individuals at the establishment were arrested and booked into the Pierce County Jail for violations of the Uniform Controlled Substances Act, stated the release. LCB officers plan to recommend felony charges for unlawful possession and delivery of a controlled substance, and operating a cannabis club. 

Meanwhile, at Vincere’s Compassion Club in Tacoma, LCB seized 73 cannabis plants, around 800 pounds of illicit cannabis products, growing equipment, cash, electronic and surveillance equipment, ballistic vests and two firearms. An individual was arrested by LCB officers and booked into the Pierce County Jail on cannabis-related crimes, stated the release.

“The investigations were prompted by multiple complaints alleging that the stores were selling cannabis without a license,” stated the release. 

For more information about laws related to cannabis, go online to lcb.wa.gov.