U.S. Attorney Martin Sends Letter to Green Theory Pot Dispensary for Violation of Federal Law

WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Attorney Edward R. Martin Jr., of the District of Columbia, sent a letter to the owners and operators of Green Theory, a city-permitted marijuana dispensary located at 4828 MacArthur Blvd., NW, for operating within 1,000 feet of several area schools.

“I am concerned that you are in violation of federal laws, which are intended to protect children. To that end, the need to address this issue is serious,” Martin said.

The U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia wrote the letter in response to neighborhood concerns expressed to him from parents and other residents regarding the dispensary operating within 1,000 feet of several schools, including: Our Lady of Victory Catholic School, the River School, St. Patrick’s Episcopal Day School and Little Ivies preschool.

“As you likely know, there are numerous federal laws governing and even prohibiting the distribution and possession of marijuana, including provisions of the Controlled Substances Act,” he said.

“Your dispensary appears to be operating in violation of federal law, and the Department of Justice has the authority to enforce federal law even when such activities may be permitted under state or local law,” he said. “Persons and entities owning, operating, or facilitating such dispensaries (as well as premises grow centers) may be subject to criminal prosecution and civil enforcement actions under federal law.”

In the letter, Martin asked three questions of the dispensary owners:

• Are you aware of the federal laws related to marijuana dispensaries and their locations near schools?
• Have you addressed these issues with federal law enforcement officials?
• Can you produce documentation regarding your compliance with federal law?

A copy of the letter can be found here.