Chinese Criminal Organizations Establishing Lucrative Illegal Marijuana Farms in Maine, Reveals Border Patrol Memo

Illegal Chinese Marijuana Grow Operations Spreading in Rural Maine, Says Leaked Memo

According to a leaked memo from Border Patrol, illegal Chinese marijuana grow operations are spreading across rural areas in Maine. Federal officials suspect that China is profiting from these operations, which are also present throughout the United States. The memo, obtained by the Daily Caller News Foundation, reveals that Border Patrol has identified 270 properties in Maine actively used by the Chinese for their illegal marijuana operations.

Illegal Operations in the US Generating Over $4 Billion in Profits Annually, Memo Reveals

A memo reveals that illegal operations in the US, likely run by Chinese nationals, could be generating over $4 billion in profits annually. The operations involve properties that make more than $16 million in profit each year, which is suspected to be used for criminal activities or sent to China. These individuals are difficult to deport due to asylum claims or residency status.

I-95, a Major Highway, Commonly Used for Illegal Activities, Says Memo

According to a memo, it is believed that I-95, a major highway in the United States, is commonly used for illegal activities such as transporting bulk cash, illegal drugs, and illegal immigrants. The memo suggests that I-95, which stretches from Miami, Florida to near New Brunswick, is a desirable route for smugglers due to its accessibility to various connecting routes and neighboring states.

Chinese Nationals Arrested in Various States for Illegal Marijuana Grows

Chinese nationals running illegal marijuana grows have been arrested in various states, including Maine, California, and Colorado. This issue has been ongoing for years, as highlighted in a 2017 report from the Portland Press Herald. The individuals arrested included those who were illegally in the U.S. as well as others who entered on B-1 or B-2 visas.

Lack of Deterrence in Combating Drug Trafficking, Says Former DEA Head

According to Derek Maltz, the former head of the DEA's Special Operations Division, there is a lack of deterrence in combating drug trafficking. Criminals, particularly Chinese nationals, are adept at exploiting vulnerabilities in the system. Maltz also highlights that these Chinese individuals often collaborate with Mexican drug cartels.

Mexican Cartels Using Drug Sales Cash to Buy Properties in America, Says Politician

According to a statement, a politician claims that Mexican cartels are using cash from drug sales in America to buy properties and make investments in the country. The recreational sale of marijuana has been legalized in Maine since 2020, following a vote by the public in 2016.