Virginia State Senator Lillie Louise Lucas surrendered to federal authorities Thursday, October 22nd, after being indicted in a major investigation alleging marijuana trafficking, money laundering and corruption.
The 82-year-old Portsmouth Democrat and six other defendants face charges connected to an alleged criminal enterprise involving marijuana distribution and the laundering of proceeds.Â
The indictment outlines eight counts across the defendants, rather than five counts against Lucas alone.
Federal prosecutors allege Lucas used her position as chairwoman of the Virginia Senate Finance and Appropriations Committee to protect a marijuana business operated with relatives and associates from criminal scrutiny while influencing legislation to benefit the enterprise.
The investigation follows FBI searches in May at Lucas’ political office in Portsmouth and The Cannabis Outlet, a cannabis-related business in which she has an ownership interest. Authorities reportedly recovered marijuana and firearms during the searches.
Lucas has served in the Virginia Senate since 1991 and is the chamber’s president pro tempore.Â
Her legal team has indicated it intends to challenge the case.Â
Brian Woolfolk, chief counsel for the L. Louise Lucas Legal Defense Fund, described the developments as expected and said the defense would await further details.
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