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Virginia state Sen. L. Louise Lucas faces federal racketeering, money laundering conspiracy and marijuana distribution conspiracy charges in an alleged $4.5 million criminal enterprise involving a cannabis business she co-owns, according to the Justice Department.
Lucas, 82, surrendered to authorities Thursday (October 22). Six other defendants, including two of her daughters and a grandson, were also charged in the eight-count indictment, the DOJ said.
Prosecutors allege Lucas led the enterprise, directing the acquisition and distribution of at least 100 kilograms of marijuana and overseeing the laundering of its proceeds.
The indictment also accuses her of using her position as chair of Virginia’s Senate Finance and Appropriations Committee to shield the business from criminal scrutiny and influence legislation for its benefit.
According to the DOJ, Lucas allegedly paid $750,000 in August 2022 for a full stake in a holding company tied to a prospective recreational marijuana license.
She allegedly failed to disclose the interest on required financial disclosure forms and discussed the license applicant’s qualifications with other officials.
The FBI searched The Cannabis Outlet and The CBD Shoppe on May 6, recovering marijuana and firearms, according to the DOJ.
In a February 2026 phone call, Lucas allegedly described the opportunity as their “last chance at generational wealth,” adding, “I’ve gotten too old to not be greedy,” NBC News reported.
In a statement posted to social media Thursday, Lucas vowed to fight the charges.
“I grew up under Jim Crow,” Lucas said. “I’ve seen what happens when people in power try to silence those who stand up to them. I spent my life fighting back, and I’m not stopping now.”
Lucas has served in the Virginia Senate since 1991 and has championed marijuana legalization. Licensed recreational sales are scheduled to begin July 1, 2027.
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