“We very much appreciate the law enforcement work conducted by UCETF to target illegal cannabis.  This can be dangerous work but is important for consumer protection, public safety, the future of our natural resources, and supporting those cannabis operations that are licensed.”

CSLEA President Alan Barcelona

SACRAMENTO – On October 22, 2024, Governor Gavin Newsom announced the continued progress of California’s Unified Cannabis Enforcement Task Force (UCETF), which has seized $70.7 million worth of illegal cannabis since July and more than $191 million worth across 13 counties since January 2024. Through enforcement efforts, UCETF continues to demonstrate California’s commitment to protecting public safety, preserving natural resources, and supporting the integrity of the licensed cannabis market. 

Governor Gavin Newsom said, “Our communities are safer with over 42,000 pounds of illicit cannabis taken off the streets since the beginning of the year. Through the UCETF, California continues the charge in cracking down on the illicit cannabis market for the safety of consumers and the support of the legal cannabis industry.”

“UCETF continues to make significant progress by targeting illegal operations that harm California’s environment and natural resources,” said Nathaniel Arnold, Chief of the Law Enforcement Division at the Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW). “The dedication and skill of the officers involved in these operations are truly commendable — they’re on the front lines, protecting our natural resources, ensuring public safety, and safeguarding vulnerable workers.”

“This quarter we targeted unlicensed cannabis operators misusing the California cannabis universal symbol on their packaging,” said Bill Jones, Chief of the California Department of Cannabis Control’s Law Enforcement Division. “This deceptive practice confuses consumers and puts them at risk. We are stepping up enforcement across the supply chain and shutting these operations down.”

Since inception, UCETF has seized and destroyed over 162 tons worth of illegal cannabis worth an estimated $536 million through over 350 operations. The taskforce has also eradicated 526,037 plants, seized 167 firearms, and arrested 59 individuals.