Authorities seized nearly 400 pounds of cannabis from three illegal dispensaries in Fullerton Thursday, Oct. 23, according to the O.C. Register.
391 pounds of illegal cannabis worth more than $620,000 was seized from the dispensaries, according to the state Department of Cannabis Control, which led the operation. Fullerton police officers were also involved in the bust.
The unlicensed dispensaries were located at 1001 S. Brookhurst Rd., 162 N. Raymond Ave., and 2444 Fender Ave.
More than $459,000 of illicit cannabis were taken from the Raymond Avenue dispensary alone, according to officials.
Incredibly no arrests were made.
The investigation continues.
You can click here to make sure your local marijuana shop is legal and licensed.
Earlier this week, Governor Gavin Newsom announced that California’s cannabis enforcement efforts led to the seizure and destruction of over $222 million worth of illegal cannabis from July to September 2025.
Q3 Enforcement Highlights
- 133,372 pounds of illegal cannabis destroyed
- 234,198 cannabis plants eradicated, which would have used up to 105 million gallons of water over their growing cycles
- 18 arrests made
- 22 firearms confiscated
- Enforcement activity spanned 15 counties, including Monterey, Los Angeles, Kern, Alameda, and Shasta
The largest enforcement action of the quarter took place in July in Monterey County, where UCETF partners led by the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department dismantled a major illegal cultivation site. In the weeks following the operation, Department of Cannabis Control (DCC), California and local authorities destroyed more than 38 tons of cannabis, valued at over $125 million—one of the most significant cannabis enforcement efforts in state history.
“The impact from illegal cannabis operators is real,” said DCC Director Nicole Elliott. “They do not just break the law, they put our neighborhoods, environment, and licensed cannabis businesses at risk. These enforcement actions demonstrate continued dedication to protecting our communities and building a legal and safe cannabis market California consumers can trust.”
In August, UCETF partners led by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) eradicated nearly 27,000 illegal cannabis plants valued at more than $22 million in Los Angeles County, detaining 20 suspects and seizing toxic pesticides imported from China. In Napa County, California State Parks officers halted a water diversion in a state park linked to illegal cultivation and, during an unrelated emergency, rescued a kidnapped child. The swift response ensured the child’s safe recovery, and the arrest of a suspect wanted for multiple violent felonies.
Suspects involved in operating illegal cannabis dispensaries in California may face multiple felony charges and administrative penalties.
Here are the most likely consequences under California law:
- Operating an unlicensed cannabis business (Business & Professions Code § 26038)
- Civil penalty: up to $30,000 per violation per day
- Criminal charges may apply if violations are repeated or involve large-scale operations
- Possession of cannabis for sale without a license (Health & Safety Code § 11359)
- Felony offense
- Penalty: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years in county jail
- Applies when large quantities or packaging suggest intent to distribute
- Unlawful cannabis distribution (Health & Safety Code § 11360)
- Felony offense for transporting, selling, or giving away cannabis without a license
- Penalty: 2 to 4 years in county jail
- Tax evasion and financial penalties
- Failure to report and pay cannabis taxes may result in fines, audits, and criminal charges
- California Department of Tax and Fee Administration may pursue restitution
- Asset forfeiture
- Authorities may seize cash, vehicles, and property used in illegal cannabis operations
- Environmental and safety violations
- If the dispensaries violated building codes or endangered public health, additional fines or charges may apply
- Repeat offenders or those linked to organized operations may face enhanced penalties