California's Unified Cannabis Enforcement Task Force (UCETF) has seized over 63,000 pounds of illegal cannabis, eradicated nearly 90,000 plants, and confiscated 17 firearms in a three-month period, continuing its efforts to dismantle illicit operations across 10 counties. Governor Gavin Newsom announced these new results, highlighting the state's ongoing fight against organized crime, environmental destruction, and threats to public safety associated with the illegal cannabis market.
Between April and June 2026, coordinated enforcement operations by state and local partners resulted in the destruction of 63,204 pounds of illegal cannabis, valued at over $104 million. These actions also led to 24 arrests and the seizure of $220,923 in cash. The operations specifically targeted cultivation and distribution linked to environmental damage, hazardous pesticides, labor exploitation, and organized criminal activity.
Governor Newsom emphasized the broader impact of these efforts, saying, "Disrupting the illegal cannabis market is about more than seizing unlicensed products – it's about taking on criminal networks, removing illegal firearms out of the hands of dangerous individuals, and stopping activity that threatens public safety." He added that California is making it clear that threats to communities will be met with action through strong multiagency collaboration.
A major multi-county operation from May 14 to June 3, led by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW), served 26 search warrants across Tulare, Kern, and Los Angeles counties. This action uncovered numerous environmental violations, including 13 sites with banned or toxic pesticides, leading to the eradication of nearly 24,000 cannabis plants and the destruction of 3,700 pounds of processed cannabis. CDFW Director Meghan Hertel noted the serious threats posed by illicit cultivation to the environment and public safety, particularly from restricted pesticides harmful to wildlife and consumers.
Since its establishment in 2022, the UCETF has seized and destroyed more than 841,000 pounds of illicit cannabis, valued at over $1.3 billion, through more than 750 search warrants across 29 counties. These comprehensive efforts have also resulted in 100 arrests and the seizure of over 250 firearms. Department of Cannabis Control Director Clint Kellum affirmed that these continued efforts protect California’s communities, economy, and the licensed cannabis market, ensuring consumer safety and supporting the regulated industry.