Virginia state Senator L. Louise Lucas and six co-defendants were indicted by federal prosecutors on Thursday in connection with an alleged criminal enterprise involving marijuana distribution, racketeering, and money laundering.
The unsealed federal indictment in Norfolk accuses Lucas, 82, and members of her inner circle of running an operation that allegedly acquired and distributed large quantities of marijuana through a family-run business, The Cannabis Outlet, while leveraging her political influence to enrich themselves and shield the enterprise from scrutiny. Lucas faces five counts, including racketeering conspiracy, conspiracy to distribute marijuana, conspiracy to launder money, conspiracy to commit honest services fraud, and maintaining a drug-involved premises. Other defendants face additional charges involving wire fraud and firearms.
Federal authorities previously signaled the investigation in May when the FBI raided Lucas' office and her cannabis business. While small amounts of cannabis are legal for personal and medical use in Virginia, commercial recreational retail sales remain restricted under state law.
Lucas surrendered to authorities on Thursday and made an initial court appearance in Norfolk, where prosecutors did not request she be held in custody. Her formal arraignment is scheduled for November 16 in Newport News.
Defense counsel stated that Lucas denies the charges in their entirety and intends to plead not guilty. In statements posted to social media, Lucas characterized the prosecution as politically motivated and vowed to fight the allegations, writing, "I will not be intimidated."
