Law enforcement in Connecticut announced on Tuesday they have confiscated thousands of delta-8 THC, delta-8 THCO, delta-9 THCO, and other high-THC products at three vape shops in Stamford. Attorney General William Tong said he is preparing to take legal action against Zaza Smoke Shop 2, Breeze Smokeshop, and Worlds Exotic Smoke Shop for alleged violations of the Connecticut Unfair Trade Practices Act.
The action followed an investigation by Tong’s office at the three shops. At one shop, investigators discovered a fake electrical panel with a hidden drawer containing cannabis flower, other illicit drugs, cash, and a ledger. At another shop, investigators found illegal THC products stashed above ceiling tiles.
“My message to retailers is clear – if you continue to sell unregulated, untested, illegal cannabis, I will hold you accountable. Fake Oreos, Cheetos, and Sour Patch Kids packed with THC put kids in danger and are not legal anywhere in Connecticut. In partnership with the Stamford Police Department, thousands of these illegal cannabis products have been confiscated and their sellers now face legal consequences. I have sent letters to every licensed vape shop and publicized the law in every way that I can. There is zero excuse for the continued sale of these illegal, unregulated, and untested products.” — Tong in a press release
Under Connecticut law, cannabis products that exceed 0.3 percent THC on a dry weight, including delta-8 THC, are considered cannabis and may only be sold in the regulated market and must meet testing and packaging requirements.
In February, Tong sent warning letters to all Connecticut licensed retailers of vaping products advising them that sale of delta-8 THC by unlicensed retailers may be illegal.
To date, the Office of the Attorney General has sued five Connecticut retailers for alleged violations of the Connecticut Unfair Trade Practices Act over the sale of illegal delta-8 THC products mimicking popular youth-oriented snacks and candies. The first five complaints were filed in February and remain pending.
Adult-use cannabis sales commenced in the state in January.
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