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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Julie Graham
Julie.Graham@lcb.wa.gov
360-664-1621
LCB Finds Illegal Cannabis Activity at “Medicine Creek Territory ” in Nisqually Basin: Cannabis, Firearms, and Cash Seized
OLYMPIA - Following an investigation into unlicensed cannabis sales, Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board (LCB) Officers entered an unlicensed business that was the subject of an investigation and seized a large amount of cannabis, firearms, and cash. The source of the seized cannabis is under investigation.
Background on the LCB’s investigation and special operation:
During the investigation, LCB undercover officers purchased illegal cannabis from the unlicensed cannabis retailer “Medicine Creek Territory” located at 11117 Conine Avenue SE – Frank’s Landing Plaza in Lacey. The store claims to have tribal affiliation, but the investigation revealed that the operators are not part of a federally recognized tribe. Under state law, cannabis may only be sold by a business holding a state-issued cannabis license unless the location is operated by a federally recognized tribe with a compact with the State of Washington.
Over the past few months, undercover LCB officers made buys of cannabis at the unlicensed store. LCB officers subsequently obtained a search warrant for Medicine Creek Territory. In partnership with the Thurston County Sheriff’s Office, LCB officers executed a search warrant Friday morning.
Altogether, the officers located and seized over 8,000 grams of cannabis flower, nearly 900 concentrate products, and over 200 packages of cannabis-infused products. LCB officers also located and seized three firearms and approximately $6,000.00.
LCB officers will be recommending felony charges to the Thurston County Prosecutor’s Office for Unlawful Possession and Delivery of a Controlled Substance (RCW 69.50.401).
The Nisqually Tribe communicated concerns about the unlicensed store which prompted the investigation. The store in not affiliated with the Nisqually Tribe, and it was located near Wa He Lut Indian School, the Tribe’s elementary and middle school. The Nisqually Tribe has entered into a cannabis compact with the State of Washington to operate cannabis businesses. LCB worked with the tribe throughout the investigation.
Evidence seizure image (unlicensed cannabis for sale)
Evidence seizure image (business banner advertising cannabis)
Evidence seizure image (One of three weapons seized)
Additional images available upon request.
The Mission of the Liquor and Cannabis Board is to promote public safety and trust through fair administration, education, and enforcement of liquor, cannabis, tobacco, and vapor laws.
For more information about the Liquor and Cannabis Board, visit lcb.wa.gov.
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