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FBI raids on local officials mark latest probe targeting corruption in cannabis licensing
An FBI investigation into Baldwin Park City Hall’s dealings with cannabis companies marks the latest probe into cannabis business licensing. Since California voters legalized recreational cannabis four years ago, allegations of conflicts of interest , bribery and bias in the permitting process have plagued cities and counties as they try to regulate the fledgling industry.
The accusations have led to a series of high-profile arrests and prosecutions of local government officials and pot operators. The latest law enforcement investigation involving cannabis licensing emerged in recent days after FBI agents served warrants at the home of a Compton councilman, the downtown L.A. law offices of the Baldwin Park city attorney and the home of a San Bernardino planning commissioner.
FBI agents searched the properties as part of an investigation into how Baldwin Park has been dealing with cannabis businesses, according to sources familiar with the inquiry. It’s not clear what exactly federal agents are investigating or whether the three local government officials are targets. An FBI spokeswoman confirmed their addresses were among those searched Oct. 28 and said the three men were not arrested. Compton Councilman Isaac Galvan confirmed that FBI agents searched his apartment. He said the investigation had […]
