Key facts
- Lucas is accused of orchestrating a multi-year scheme to enrich her criminal marijuana enterprise.
- The FBI searched Lucas's hometown office and a cannabis shop in May.
Virginia state senator L Louise Lucas was charged Thursday with leading a criminal enterprise involved in marijuana trafficking and money laundering. The indictment, unsealed Thursday, includes charges against Lucas and six others, including relatives. Lucas surrendered to authorities the same day.
The indictment of a senior Democratic lawmaker in Virginia on federal charges of running an illegal cannabis operation raises questions about potential political motivations and impacts the ongoing debate around marijuana legalization.
Virginia State Senator L. Louise Lucas, 82, a senior Democrat, was charged on Thursday with racketeering conspiracy, money laundering, and other offenses for allegedly running an illegal cannabis business with family members. Prosecutors allege that Lucas and her associates arranged for the distribution and sale of large amounts of marijuana, while recreational cannabis dispensaries are not yet legally authorized in the state. The indictment comes less than two weeks before the November midterm elections. Attorney General Todd Blanche stated the investigation has been ongoing for several years. Lucas surrendered to authorities on Thursday morning and was due to make her first court appearance later in the day in Norfolk, Virginia. Lucas serves as president pro tempore of the state Senate, leading the legislative body when the lieutenant governor is not present. The FBI searched Lucas's hometown office and a cannabis shop in May.
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