U.S. charges 82-year-old Virginia Democratic lawmaker in alleged drug scheme
U.S. prosecutors accuse L. Louise Lucas of running an illegal cannabis business with members of her family. The 82-year-old Virginia state senator said Thursday's actions amounted to the federal government wielding its "full weight" against a great-grandmother.
Virginia state Senator L. Louise Lucas, a prominent Democrat, was charged on Thursday in connection with a large-scale criminal operation involving marijuana distribution and money laundering. The charges stem from an alleged role Lucas played in leading the enterprise, which also involved several of her relatives. U.S. Attorney General Todd Blanche and FBI Director Kash Patel emphasized that Lucas prioritized her own financial interests over the needs of her constituents.
Lucas surrendered and is set to make her first court appearance later that day. The charges include drug trafficking and money laundering, following FBI searches of Lucas's office and a cannabis shop she owns. The indictment came after months of sealed court records revealing that Lucas' communications had been intercepted as part of a wiretap.
Lucas has consistently defended herself against the charges, stating that she will not be intimidated or bullied.
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