Regulatory Enforcement Agents from the Department of Finance and Administration, in coordination with local police, seized a significant number of illegal THC products from Pacific Green in Corning June 2. They were executing a search warrant that was signed by Judge Scott Ellington. More than a dozen agents joined City of Corning Police in the day-long operation. It resulted in two arrests.
Illegal products seized surpassed 25 pounds at minimum. This included illegal flower, vapes, and edibles.
Owner Ben Bennett and employee Sharia Shipman were arrested. Both were charged with the following:
- Delivery of a Schedule VI controlled substance (Class D Felony)
- Possession of a Schedule VI controlled substance with the purpose to deliver (Class B Felony)
- Controlled substances – Offenses relating to records, maintaining premises (Class C Felony)
- Possession of drug paraphernalia (Class D Felony)
- Unauthorized use of another person’s property to facilitate certain crimes (Class C Felony)
Bennett’s bond was set at $150,000. Shipman’s bond was set at $100,000.
“This retailer was operating outside of Arkansas’s laws regarding hemp and medical marijuana,” said DFA Secretary Jim Hudson. “Citizens expressed concern to local leaders and law enforcement, who contacted DFA. We partnered with Corning Police to ensure these illegal products no longer endanger Arkansans. This should serve as an example to any retailers considering these illegal, harmful products that DFA will not hesitate to act and enforce our laws.”
“In addition to selling illegal products, investigators confirmed violations involving underage access at this location,” said David Potter, Director of the Regulatory Enforcement Division. “This retailer, which was located within 1,000 feet of a school, presented significant public health and safety concerns. We are proud to partner with the Corning Police Department in addressing these violations. We seized a substantial quantity of illegal products, including flower, vapes, edibles, and other items, during the operation. We appreciate the cooperation of local law enforcement and information received from the community that led to yesterday’s operation and stopped this blatant disregard of the law.”
The Regulatory Division of DFA oversees alcohol, tobacco and medical marijuana in Arkansas.