California Seizes $534 Million in Illegal Cannabis in 2024

LOS ANGELES- In 2024, California enforcement officials seized illegal cannabis valued at approximately $534 million, underscoring the state’s commitment to regulating its cannabis industry. ​

Enforcement Actions and Seizures

The Unified Cannabis Enforcement Task Force (UCETF), established in 2022 to enhance coordination among state, local, and federal agencies, played a pivotal role in these enforcement efforts. Throughout the year, the task force executed 425 search warrants targeting illicit indoor and outdoor cultivation sites, as well as unlicensed retail operations. ​

Key statistics from these operations include:

• Indoor Cultivation:

  • 155 warrants served​
  • Confiscation of 162,887 pounds of illegal cannabis​
  • Eradication of 288,904 unlicensed cannabis plants
  • Seizure of 61 firearms​
  • 28 arrests made​

• Outdoor Cultivation:

  • 143 warrants served​
  • Confiscation of 122,673 pounds of illegal cannabis​
  • Eradication of 190,812 unlicensed cannabis plants​
  • Seizure of 30 firearms​
  • 57 arrests made​

• Retail Operations:

  • 87 warrants served​
  • Confiscation of 8,821 pounds of illegal cannabis​
  • Eradication of 1,275 unlicensed cannabis plants​
  • Seizure of 22 firearms​
  • 28 arrests made​

Notably, the UCETF also removed over 2.2 million pieces of illegal cannabis packaging designed to appeal to children, as part of “Operation Grab Bag” in Los Angeles’ Toy District. ​

Regional Highlights

The top counties for enforcement activity, based on the value of cannabis seized, were:​

• Los Angeles County: $103.7 million​
• Alameda County: $100.6 million​
• Mendocino County: $52.5 million​
• Shasta County: $26.4 million​
• Kern County: $11 million​

Statewide Impact

Since its inception, the UCETF has seized nearly $600 million in unlicensed cannabis, eradicated 583,000 plants, and confiscated 167 firearms across 380 operations. These efforts aim to protect public safety, preserve natural resources, and support the regulated cannabis market in California.​

Governor Gavin Newsom emphasized the state’s dedication to eliminating illegal cannabis operations that threaten public safety, harm the environment, and undermine the regulated market. He highlighted the importance of continued collaboration among state, local, and federal agencies to address these challenges effectively. ​

The Department of Cannabis Control’s Director, Nicole Elliott, also noted that these enforcement actions reflect California’s ongoing commitment to maintaining the integrity of its legal cannabis market, supporting licensed operators, and safeguarding consumers and communities from the adverse effects associated with unregulated cannabis activities. ​

These comprehensive enforcement efforts demonstrate California’s resolve to address the complexities of its cannabis industry, balancing the promotion of legal enterprises with stringent actions against illicit operations.