Torch Lake Man Charged in Cannabis Tax Evasion Case

OG Article By Charles E. Ramirez The Detroit News

September 17 2025

Charges Filed

Joseph Willbee, 50, of Torch Lake, faces tax evasion charges linked to an illegal cannabis operation in Otsego County. He was arraigned Tuesday in Lansing’s 54A District Court.

Legal Details

Willbee is charged with three counts of filing false income tax returns, a 5-year felony. His bond is set at $3,000, with a court hearing scheduled for Thursday.

Investigation Findings

In October 2021, Michigan State Police searched Willbee’s home, seizing over 1,000 cannabis plants and 50 pounds of processed cannabis. Prosecutors say he failed to file tax returns for the operation from 2019 to 2021.

Official Statement

Attorney General Dana Nessel emphasized that illegal cannabis operations harm state revenue for essential services. She commended the Michigan State Police’s Cannabis and Tobacco Investigation Section.

Related Cases

• An Oakland County man pleaded guilty in October to evading $318,000 in federal taxes for his law firm.

• A Macomb County couple was sentenced last September for Medicare fraud and tax evasion, owing $602,154.91.

• Two years ago, a Warren cannabis dispensary owner was convicted of tax evasion, costing over $1 million in tax revenue.