Federal Charges Filed Against Longtime Virginia Senator
Prosecutors accuse Louise Lucas of using her political office to protect a cannabis business scheme she co-owns.
By Rafael Ortega ·
Federal investigators have brought charges against a powerful Virginia lawmaker over allegations involving a marijuana business she co-owns.
Louise Lucas, 82, surrendered to authorities on Thursday and faces accusations related to racketeering and money laundering. She is joined in custody by six other individuals, including relatives. Additionally, prosecutors have charged her with conspiracy to distribute marijuana.
Lucas is a prominent Democrat and a longtime critic of President Donald Trump. Attorney General Todd Blanche and FBI Director Kash Patel traveled to Norfolk to announce the charges. Blanche stated that Lucas prioritized her financial gain over her public duties. “Her first duty should have been looking out for her constituents before himself,” Blanche said. He emphasized that the Department of Justice does not engage in political paybacks.
Federal agents executed searches at Lucas’ office in Portsmouth and a cannabis store she opened in 2021 in May. Prosecutors allege that Lucas utilized her role in the state senate to shield the business from criminal scrutiny. The indictment claims that various business entities were used to disguise proceeds from illegal marijuana distribution. During a monitored phone call earlier this year, Lucas allegedly remarked that she had “gotten too old to not be greedy.”
The investigation predates the current administration, but the announcement comes just 12 days before the midterm election. Federal authorities typically avoid taking legal steps against political figures so close to a vote. Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger criticized the timing, stating that it erodes public trust in the Justice Department. She noted that individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Lucas has maintained her innocence and refused to back down. In a statement, she addressed the charges, saying, “Today, the FBI, the Department of Justice, and the full weight of the federal government have been wielded against an 82-year-old great-grandmother.” She added that she grew up under Jim Crow and will not be stopped.
Virginia has legalized the possession of marijuana, though retail sales of recreational cannabis remain illegal in the state. Lucas has stated that her store sells legal hemp and CBD products. She has served in the Virginia Senate for 34 years and holds the chair of the Senate Finance and Appropriations Committee.
Source: NBC4 Washington
