65A - RPT - REGARDING MEDICAL MARIJUANA INITIATIVE

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The execution of search warrants at these businesses sent a powerful message to other individuals operating marijuana distribution businesses that they are in violation of both federal law and California law. Press Materials: Reported Crime at Marijuana Dispensaries From January 1, 2005 through June 23, 2006 18 16 14 12 10 8 6 4 2 0 Information showing the dispensaries attracted crime: The marijuana dispensaries were targets of violent crimes because of the amount of marijuana, currency, and other contraband stored inside the businesses. From January 1, 2005 through June 23, 2006, 24 violent crimes were reported at marijuana dispensaries. An analysis of financial records seized from the marijuana dispensaries showed several dispensaries were grossing over $300,000 per month from selling marijuana and marijuana food products. The majority of customers purchased marijuana with cash. Crime statistics inadequately reflect the actual number of crimes committed at the marijuana dispensaries. These businesses were often victims of robberies and burglaries, but did not report the crimes to law enforcement on account of fear of being arrested for possession of marijuana in excess of Prop. 215 guidelines. NTF and the San Diego Police Department (SDPD) received numerous citizen complaints regarding every dispensary operating in San Diego County. Because the complaints were received by various individuals, the exact number of complaints was not recorded. The following were typical complaints received: • high levels of traffic going to and from the dispensaries • people loitering in the parking lot of the dispensaries • people smoking marijuana in the parking lot of the dispensaries © 2009 California Police Chiefs Assn. 22 All Rights Reserved 65A-83 Burglary Attempted Criminal Attempted Armed Battery Burglary Threat Robbery Robbery