Banning Clamps Down On Illegal Cannabis Biz, $9M Worth Of Weed Found

BANNING, CA — An illegal cannabis operation in Banning was shut down by authorities, the city announced Tuesday.

The business in the 200 block of E. John Street was shuttered this month after approximately 7,500 cannabis plants and 800 pounds of processed marijuana were found at the location. In total, the cannabis had an estimated street value of more than $9 million, according to the city.

In 2018, Banning voters approved cannabis operations for cultivation and retail, but businesses are required to go through a permitting process via the state and city.

Banning City Manager Doug Schulze said illegal operators hurt cannabis companies that follow the rules.

“The City of Banning will always look to protect the legitimate interests of our business community who have sought to open their businesses the right way, the legal way and the ethical way,” Schulze said, adding that the E. John Street shutdown sends "a clear message that illegal businesses of any kind operating in our city and profiting on the backs of legitimate business owners will not be tolerated.”

"Our City Council is firmly committed to making certain that any product sold within city limits meets the regulatory requirements that have been set forth by the State of California and the City of Banning,” Banning Mayor Alberto Sanchez said. “With the increase in fentanyl-related deaths across the nation, it is imperative, now more than ever, that we shut down these illegal operations that have the potential to distribute and sell products that could prove harmful or deadly to consumers.”

Illegal cannabis operators often steal utilities, particularly electrical service, and the rigged wiring can pose a fire hazard.

“Stopping illegal construction and/or usage of utilities is a cornerstone of fire-safe communities.” Riverside County Fire Chief Bill Weiser said. “These illegal grow facilities have started many fires in our communities.”

Interim Fire Marshal Sonia Cooley added, “The Riverside County Fire Department, Office of the Fire Marshal is committed to ensuring fire and life safety for businesses and residents throughout the county and our partnering cities.”

No arrests were announced and part of the closure.