Kidnappings, Burglaries, and Cash: Why Cannabis Businesses Are the New Hot Target for Criminals!

The recent kidnapping and burglary at a Tumwater cannabis business underscores a troubling trend: cannabis operations are increasingly becoming lucrative targets for organized crime. The April incident, which led to the arrest of an 18-year-old suspect last week, highlights the vulnerabilities faced by businesses in the rapidly growing cannabis industry.

The legal cannabis market has boomed in recent years, generating billions of dollars in revenue. However, its largely cash-based operations, high-value inventory, and limited access to traditional banking make it an appealing target for criminals. Incidents of armed robberies, burglaries, and even kidnappings are on the rise, placing cannabis businesses and their employees in a precarious position.

In Tumwater, the April 5 crime began with a 23-year-old security guard being abducted from the premises after observing suspicious vehicles near the marijuana production facility. Seven armed suspects orchestrated the operation, using two vehicles to block the guard and gain entry. Four suspects burglarized the business while three others kidnapped the guard, only releasing him after being spooked by a passing vehicle.

The Tumwater case is emblematic of the organized nature of these crimes. With multiple suspects, firearms, and a detailed plan to intimidate and steal, such operations are rarely the work of opportunistic thieves. The criminals involved in these heists often have knowledge of the cannabis industry’s vulnerabilities, targeting businesses with minimal security protocols or exploiting lapses in employee vigilance.

Tumwater Police Lt. Jen Kolb confirmed that the suspect arrested last week was identified through surveillance footage, as he was the only one not wearing a mask during the incident. The suspect now faces numerous charges, including first-degree burglary, kidnapping, and theft of a firearm. The

investigation continues for the other six individuals involved.

The Tumwater case is a sobering reminder of the risks cannabis businesses face daily. While the recent arrest of one suspect demonstrates the effectiveness of law enforcement efforts, the industry must act proactively to safeguard its operations. Strengthened security measures, advocacy for regulatory reform, and ongoing employee training are crucial steps toward creating a safer environment for the cannabis industry and its workers.

As the legal cannabis market continues to grow, so too does the need to protect the people and products that drive it forward. Incidents like the Tumwater burglary serve as a wake-up call, emphasizing that the time to prioritize security is now.

Do you think the cannabis industry should implement stricter security measures to prevent crimes?