Virginia Sen. Louise Lucas indicted in alleged marijuana racketeering scheme
The Justice Department secured an indictment of Democratic Virginia state Sen. Louise Lucas this week on five charges, accusing the longtime Democratic lawmaker of leading a network that distributed at least 100 kilograms of marijuana, laundered proceeds, and used her political influence to pursue cannabis licenses.
TL;DR
- Democratic Virginia state Senator Louise Lucas indicted on five federal charges.
- Charges include racketeering conspiracy, marijuana distribution, money laundering, and honest-services fraud.
- Prosecutors allege Lucas led a network distributing at least 100 kg of marijuana and using political influence.
- Lucas was indicted with six co-defendants, including family members.
- The indictment follows an FBI search of Lucas's office and business in May.
- Attorney General Todd Blanche rejected claims the indictment was political retaliation.