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Virginia Democrat indicted on federal drug and money laundering charges

Virginia Democrat indicted on federal drug and money laundering charges

Summary

Virginia state senator L. Louise Lucas was charged by federal authorities with drug trafficking and money laundering linked to a criminal group that sold large amounts of marijuana. The charges also involve family members, and the FBI said Lucas used her political power to protect the illegal business.

Key Facts

  • L. Louise Lucas is a Virginia state senator and president pro tempore of the state senate.
  • She was indicted along with six others, including family members, on drug and money laundering charges.
  • Authorities say they ran a multi-year marijuana trafficking operation called "the Lucas Enterprise."
  • Lucas allegedly used her position as chair of the Senate Finance Committee to avoid law enforcement scrutiny.
  • The FBI searched her office and a cannabis shop she partly owns in May.
  • Marijuana possession is legal in Virginia, but retail sales of recreational marijuana are not yet allowed.
  • Lucas has supported marijuana legalization and co-opened a cannabis shop selling hemp and CBD products.
  • She also manages companies that provide services to adults with intellectual disabilities.
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