Why it matters: Law enforcement officials in Tennessee have shut down a cannabis cultivation site that was operating in a converted church, seizing about 2,000 weed plants in the process. This bust shut down Stewart County’s largest discovered weed farm ever.
What they are saying: The church was under investigation for three weeks after residents reported a strong odor coming from the property. When deputies questioned people seen going to and from the church, they were told that hemp was being grown at the site. Investigators discovered that the grow operation had a high water bill and was using about $3,000 per month in electricity. The search of the site was slowed as deputies investigated the possibility of booby traps and found a large amount of possibly toxic chemicals.
The big picture: Tennessee has not adopted a comprehensive plan to legalize medical marijuana, and possession of even small amounts of cannabis is still a criminal offense. The discovery of this large-scale cannabis cultivation operation highlights the ongoing black market for marijuana in states where it remains illegal.
What to watch: It will be important to watch for any charges or arrests that may come from this bust. Additionally, it is worth monitoring any potential changes to Tennessee’s marijuana laws, as continued black market activity suggests a demand for legalized marijuana.
My take: This article underscores the ongoing issue of illegal marijuana cultivation in states where it is still illegal. Despite the growing acceptance and legalization of marijuana in many states, there are still significant black market operations. This bust is significant in terms of the size of the operation, showcasing the scale of the underground industry. It also highlights the lengths that law enforcement agencies must go to shut down these operations, including investigating potential booby traps and toxic chemicals. The incident is a reminder that the illegal marijuana market is still thriving in some areas, and there is still work to be done in terms of regulation and legalization.
