The Georgia Department of Agriculture announced on April 8 that a law enforcement operation conducted on March 26 in DeKalb County led to the seizure of 120 pounds of marijuana and about $4.8 million worth of illegal hemp products, resulting in multiple felony trafficking charges.
This action is part of an ongoing investigation into suspected hemp wholesalers accused of selling illegal hemp products and marijuana. The department said additional charges are expected as the investigation continues.
“The Georgia Department of Agriculture has zero tolerance for those that attempt to sell marijuana falsely advertised as hemp or hemp products that are illegal under Georgia law,” said Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tyler J Harper. “While we look forward to continuing to work closely with hemp license holders making good faith efforts to maintain compliance with state law, we will also continue to aggressively pursue bad actors who undermine public safety and put Georgians at risk.”
Investigators from the department executed a search warrant at a business warehouse in DeKalb County, assisted by the DeKalb Police Department’s Narcotics and K9 units. Several individuals were taken into custody, facing trafficking charges, while further suspects may be charged as the case develops.
The Georgia Department of Agriculture functions as a state government agency overseeing agricultural regulations according to its official website. It supports farmers and producers while protecting the state’s food supply and promoting local agricultural products through regulation of animals, food, pesticides, and various programs according to its official website.
As reported by its official website, the department enhances community well-being by protecting food supplies and supporting local producers across Georgia. Its main facility is located at 254 Washington Street S.W., Atlanta according to its official website.
