In a recent government meeting, officials from the Washington State Patrol (WSP) provided an update on their ongoing efforts to combat illicit cannabis operations in the state. Captain Jason Ashley and Lieutenant Pete Stock presented the work of the Cannabis Enforcement Response Team (CERT), which was established in 2019 following legislative direction to address illegal cannabis cultivation and trafficking.

Lieutenant Stock detailed the team's mission to dismantle drug trafficking organizations and eradicate illegal cannabis operations. He emphasized a shift in strategy from focusing solely on the number of plants seized to targeting the broader criminal networks involved in cannabis trafficking. This evolution reflects the increasing complexity of illicit operations, which often involve multiple locations and individuals.

The CERT team employs a variety of investigative techniques, including surveillance, analysis of power consumption, and collaboration with the Liquor and Cannabis Board to identify unlicensed growers. Stock noted that the team has faced significant challenges, including staffing shortages and the hazardous conditions associated with indoor cannabis grows, which can involve dangerous chemicals and compromised structures.

Despite these challenges, the team has made strides in their enforcement efforts. However, Stock reported a significant decline in the number of plants eradicated, dropping from over 100,000 in 2019 to just 1,100 this year. He attributed this decline to the pandemic and ongoing personnel issues within the state patrol.

The meeting also highlighted the environmental impact of illegal cannabis operations, with representatives from the Department of Ecology noting the ecological hazards posed by these grows. The WSP is working closely with environmental agencies to address these issues and ensure safe enforcement practices.

In response to questions from committee members, Stock acknowledged the need for greater collaboration among law enforcement agencies and the public. He encouraged citizens to report suspicious activities through Crime Stoppers or the state patrol's website, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in tackling the illicit cannabis market.

As the meeting concluded, officials underscored the necessity of a multi-faceted approach to combat the growing challenges posed by illegal cannabis operations, which are increasingly intertwined with broader criminal activities. The WSP remains committed to adapting their strategies to effectively address these evolving threats.