The Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics (OBN) executed a significant operation on March 15, 2024, seizing over 34,000 marijuana plants at HotStar Farm LLC in Pawnee County. This action is part of a broader investigation into the farm’s fraudulent acquisition of its OBN registration through a ‘straw ownership’ scheme.
The OBN’s Marijuana Enforcement Teams (MET) served a search warrant at the facility located in Jennings. During the operation, agents confiscated a total of 34,263 marijuana plants along with 378 pounds of processed marijuana. The seizure highlights ongoing efforts by authorities to regulate and monitor marijuana cultivation in the state.
As a result of the operation, nine individuals were detained on site. Of these, four were subsequently placed into the custody of agents from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The details surrounding the individuals and their involvement in the operation have not been disclosed, but the action underscores OBN’s commitment to combating illegal marijuana operations in Oklahoma.
The investigation into HotStar Farm LLC has raised concerns about compliance with state laws governing marijuana production. The OBN has indicated that it will continue to pursue similar cases to ensure that licensed operations adhere to legal standards.
This operation is part of a larger trend in Oklahoma, where regulators have ramped up enforcement to address issues related to illegal cultivation and distribution of marijuana. As the state navigates the complexities of its marijuana laws, the OBN’s actions serve as a reminder of the ongoing challenges in regulating the industry effectively.
With the growing number of licensed marijuana businesses in Oklahoma, authorities are tasked with balancing the interests of legitimate operators while cracking down on those who exploit the system. The OBN’s recent seizure in Pawnee County marks an important step in this ongoing effort.
