DC’s closure of 100th illegal marijuana operation marks milestone for city’s crackdown

OG article by Kyle Cooper Zsana Hoskins

January 13, 2026

DC’s closure of 100th illegal marijuana operation marks milestone for city’s crackdown. The District of Columbia has achieved a key enforcement milestone by shutting down its 100th illegal cannabis business since the crackdown began in September 2024. On January 1, 2026, the Alcoholic Beverage and Cannabis Administration (ABCA) and Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) closed an operation at a B Street SE residence, arresting three individuals and seizing firearms including a 9mm rifle, 12-gauge shotgun, and ammunition. Over the 15+ month effort, authorities have confiscated more than 700 pounds of marijuana, 6,300 pounds of THC edibles, over 3,000 pounds of THC lotions, made 56 arrests, and seized 12 guns—many linked to violence. Mayor Bowser stressed community safety and health, noting that only the legal medical cannabis market should serve eligible patients. The ongoing initiative targets unlicensed sales to protect residents and curb related crime.