The Alcoholic Beverage and Cannabis Administration (ABCA) and the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) closed four unlicensed cannabis retailers across Washington, D.C. in late September as part of the city’s ongoing enforcement against illegal cannabis sales.
According to ABCA press releases, the closures occurred on Sept. 9 and 26, 2025, under authority granted by the Medical Cannabis Conditional License and Unlicensed Establishment Closure Clarification Emergency Amendment Act of 2024. The law, enacted in July 2024, expanded ABCA’s power to issue civil enforcement actions and close establishments selling cannabis without a license. Since its passage, 77 businesses have been shut down for unauthorized activity.
On September 19, officials executed closure orders at 70 Smoke Shop (4526 Georgia Avenue NW) and Tobacco King (1718 14th Street NW). Both were cited for unlicensed cannabis and psychedelic mushroom sales. Authorities reported seizing approximately 9 pounds of cannabis, more than 1.2 kilograms of THC edibles, and nearly 300 grams of mushrooms and mushroom edibles combined. Three individuals were arrested in connection with the two operations.
A week later, on September 26, Heady Club DC (1648-B Columbia Road NW) and PPG Exotix (214 Second Street SE) were also closed. Investigators confiscated over 16 pounds of cannabis, nearly 900 grams of THC concentrates, and various cannabis seeds and plant materials. At Heady Club DC, officers also found two firearm magazines and 14 rounds of live ammunition.
Officials said the enforcement actions were conducted to address what they described as “imminent dangers to public health and safety.”
