Lance Huey’s journey from a disciplined Marine and state trooper to a prominent executive in the cannabis industry is a tale of transformation and breaking traditional boundaries. Huey's story is more akin to an action-packed TV series than a stereotypical stoner comedy.
Starting his career in the Marines, Huey moved on to patrol the roads of eastern Arkansas as a state trooper. His commitment to public service led him to the Grant County Quorum Court and later to the role of Grant County sheriff. His expertise in security saw him take a significant role in the Arkansas Scholarship Lottery as the head of security, a newly formed state agency at the time.
As Arkansas’ medical marijuana industry began to take root, Huey was brought on as a security consultant by Natural State Medicinals, a cannabis cultivator in White Hall. He provided crucial advice on security measures before joining the company full-time as the director of security. By 2019, Huey had transitioned to NEA Full Spectrum dispensary in Brookland, where he quickly rose from general manager to chief operating officer.
Huey's name is well-known in Arkansas, partly due to his controversial move in 2009 from sheriff to the lottery's head of security, where his $115,000 annual salary drew significant attention. Despite the scrutiny, Huey defended his role and compensation, highlighting the importance of security in the fledgling agency.
In 2022, Huey became a public advocate for a constitutional amendment to legalize recreational marijuana in Arkansas. His appearances in television ads showcased him in a relatable, rural light—dressed in camo, driving a truck, and carrying a gun. His endorsement lent the campaign a sense of authenticity and law enforcement credibility, as he argued for the safe legalization of cannabis and the potential financial benefits for law enforcement.
Huey faced mixed reactions from his law enforcement peers. While some expressed strong opposition, those who knew him respected his stance, even if they disagreed. His advocacy included participating in a campaign's appeal to the Arkansas Supreme Court, which successfully allowed the marijuana amendment on the ballot. Despite the amendment's failure by a 56% to 44% vote, Huey remained steadfast in his belief in its benefits.
His time in law enforcement gave him a unique perspective on marijuana-related cases. Huey emphasized the disproportionate effort required to prosecute minor marijuana offenses compared to their actual impact, advocating for more pragmatic approaches. His early exposure to marijuana's medicinal benefits, particularly through his uncle's battle with pancreatic cancer, solidified his belief in its potential.
Huey, who doesn't use marijuana himself, supports the recent changes in state law allowing medical marijuana cardholders to obtain concealed handgun carry licenses, calling it a fair move. His journey from a strict law enforcer to a cannabis industry leader exemplifies a significant shift in mindset, driven by personal experiences and a pragmatic approach to law enforcement.
"Would you support a law enforcement officer advocating for marijuana legalization?
"Yes, they offer valuable insights."
"No, I think law enforcement should remain neutral on such i
"I'm not sure, it depends on the context and the officer's r
Comments