Registered but unlicensed cannabis grow raided in Northern California

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A commercial cannabis grow in California that had been legally registered and apparently attempted to obtain legal permits was recently raided by local law enforcement agents after a county ban on marijuana cultivation took effect.

Calaveras County Sheriff’s deputies raided a grow in Railroad Flat and seized more than 1,300 cannabis plants, as well as over 170 pounds of processed marijuana.

They cited three adults for various charges, including one felony and two misdemeanors, The Union Democrat of Sonora reported.

The case illustrates the still-evolving nature of California’s widespread MJ industry and how many legacy businesses are trying – and often failing – to find a way to legally take part.

Calaveras County initiated a ban on commercial marijuana cultivation that went into effect in March, and a compliance grace period for companies ended June 7.

Enforcement against both licensed and unlicensed MJ companies in the state has largely been left to local authorities.

That means any businesses that don’t have permits run the risk of criminal charges, as the three operators cited in Calaveras County are now facing.

“If any (MJ growers) out there are out of compliance with the ban, the Sheriff’s Office Marijuana Enforcement Team will investigate and enforce any violation of laws,” a county sheriff’s spokeswoman told The Union Democrat.