Two unlicensed cannabis dispensaries operating in the Ottawa neighbourhood of Westboro have been shut down, according to police. The Ottawa Police Service (OPS) says officers executed two search warrants at unlicensed cannabis dispensaries on Feb. 20, following reports “they were operating without licenses contrary to the Cannabis Control Act.” The first search warrant was executed at a business in the 200 block of Richmond Road. “A large quantity of cannabis products, cigarettes and Canadian currency were seized,” police said. “One employee was charged under a Part III offence notice (Ontario Cannabis Control Act s.15(1) and s.6(1)).” Police say officers executed a second warrant at an unlicensed cannabis store in the 300 block of Athlone Avenue, at Scott Street. “However, the dispensary had already closed,” police said. “Both unlicensed dispensaries were shared by the same landlord. Investigations into unlicensed establishments remain ongoing. The OPS will continue working with regulatory and enforcement partners to ensure compliance and community safety, in alignment with its strategic vision of being a trusted partner in the community.” Police note section 6 of the Ontario Cannabis Control Act states the sale or distribution of cannabis by anyone other than an unauthorized retailer is prohibited. “Legal cannabis in Ontario is subject to strict regulatory oversight,” police said. “Furthermore, section 13 of the Act prohibits landlords from knowingly allowing their property to be used for illegal cannabis activities.” The penalty for violating the provisions is a fine ranging from $10,000 to $250,000 and imprisonment of up to two years less a day for a first conviction.
