Hamilton police charge two men after shutting down two illegal cannabis dispensaries

Hamilton police say they closed two illegal cannabis dispensaries and charged two men following search warrants on Wellington Street North and Barton Street East.

Officers say two weeks ago they executed a search warrant at 45 Wellington St. North. They say the dispensary reopened the following day, and the building owner was notified.

Investigators say they executed another search warrant at the location Thursday, shut down the operations and barred entry to the premises, including the building owner.

A 27-year-old Hamilton man was charged with offences including selling cannabis other than as an authorized retailer, possession of illicit cannabis and possessing cannabis for the purpose of selling.

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Working with the Ministry of Labour Immigration, Hamilton Municipal by-law and Ontario Provincial Police, Hamilton officers executed a second search warrant at another illegal cannabis dispensary at 1142 Barton St. East.

As a result of the investigation, a 24-year-old man was charged with offences including property obtained by crime under $5,000, trafficking controlled tobacco and possession of illicit cannabis.

Officers say around 30 illegal cannabis dispensaries are operating in Hamilton and that they are taking further steps to disrupt repeat illegal activity and prevent these locations from continuing to operate.

“Our message to illegal cannabis operators is clear: we are coming for you. Reopening after police enforcement will bring further action,” said Hamilton Police Chief Frank Bergen in a statement. “Building owners who knowingly allow these illegal businesses to operate should also expect scrutiny and enforcement where warranted. You cannot simply collect the rent and ignore what is happening on your property.”

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