[PRESS RELEASE] – LANCASTER, Calif., Oct. 16, 2025 – In coordination with Lancaster Police Department and California Department of Tax and Fee Administration, the City of Lancaster in California has begun a multi-agency, citywide enforcement campaign targeting the sale of unregulated, illegal and unsafe products by smoke shops.
The operation – conducted in partnership with the California Department of Cannabis Control (DCC), Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, and Los Angeles County Probation – underscores the city’s commitment to protecting public health and holding bad actors accountable.
The four-day operation resulted 20 inspections completed, 17 store citations and 17 seizures. There were also 168 cartons of illegal cigarettes and tobacco products, as well as 21 containers of cannabis that had not been licensed.
“These products might look like candy or snacks, but they’re not – they’re dangerous,” Vice Mayor Marvin Crist said. If you are selling dangerous products, then we will come after you. Lancaster protects itself, and especially its children.”
Investigators found unlicensed hemp and cannabis products which were not tested to ensure their safety. This could expose consumers to pesticides and heavy metals as well as molds and solvents. The seized products were often mislabeled and packaged in a way that mimicked popular consumer brands. This made them particularly dangerous for children and teenagers.
Some of the confiscated items included delta-8 THC and delta-10 derivatives from hemp, synthetic compounds of kratom containing 7 hydroxymitragynine (7 OH), canisters for nitrous dioxide and flavor tobacco.
“Our officers are finding these products in smoke shops across the city – unlicensed, untested and marketed in ways that directly target young people,” Lancaster Police Chief Rodrick Armalin said. We’re closing down dangerous businesses and holding the sellers responsible, not only seizing these products.
During the ongoing investigation, illegal weapons like brass knuckles or switchblades were also discovered. Evidence of gambling in smoke shops was also found.
CDTFA officials claim that some vendors charged full retail price for non-taxed goods, which could lead to CDTFA fines and tax assessments.
The preliminary findings indicate that these products are often sourced from illegal supply chains linked to organized crime. This undermines California’s cannabis market, which is regulated by the state. It also poses serious risks for both licensed retailers and consumers.
Lancaster is committed to protecting its residents and restoring the integrity of local commerce. This enforcement campaign sends a strong message that illegal activities and unsafe products have no place within Lancaster.
Crist stated that “this is not a single-time sweep.” It’s a constant effort to safeguard our community, and ensure every shop in Lancaster is operating responsibly. “We’re proud of our partnership with law enforcement and the citizens who keep Lancaster safe.”
Lancaster officials ask residents to do their part in keeping the city safe.
- Avoid buying unlicensed products or suspect items.
- Look around your house for products that look like candy or other snacks.
- Reported shops that sell dangerous, unlicensed or mislabeled goods.
Lancaster Police Department can be contacted at (661) 723-6063.