The Alcoholic Beverage and Cannabis Administration (ABCA) has continued its efforts to curb illegal cannabis activity in the District of Columbia. In recent weeks, the agency, in partnership with the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD), has executed closure orders on several unlicensed cannabis businesses.
On October 30, 2024, ABCA and MPD officers served closure orders on Safe House at 335 H Street, NE, and VIP Clientele at 3551 Georgia Avenue, NW. These closures followed the shutdown of Coupons R Us on October 24th.
During these operations, authorities discovered and seized a substantial amount of illegal cannabis products, including marijuana, THC concentrates, psychedelic mushrooms and infused edibles.
At Safe House, more than 11 lbs of cannabis, 164 grams of entheogenic mushrooms, 92 grams of entheogenic mushroom laced edibles and more than 2 lbs of THC laced edibles were confiscated.
Safe House received an early cease and desist and despite being litigated continued to serve customers.
To address the issue of property owners who knowingly or unknowingly allow their properties to be used for illegal cannabis activities, the ABC Board has the authority to impose significant penalties, including fines of up to $10,000 and the requirement to implement a remediation plan to prevent future violations.
