On Friday, Denver undercover police led a sting operation on the buses of two cannabis tourism companies, according to a Denverite report. Colorado Cannabis Tours and My 420 Tours both had buses raided. The police said they cited 31 people total during the sting.
“We’re dealing with quite a shitstorm here.” — Cynthia Ord, marketing director for My 420 Tours, in an interview with Denverite.
Two undercover officers boarded a Colorado Cannabis Tours limousine-bus after signing papers to join the company’s members-only club, according to company CEO and founder Michael Eymer. The vehicle was then pulled over for a turn-signal violation by a patrol car. According to Eymer, the driver claims the turn signal was used correctly. Passengers and tour guides alike were cited for public consumption, cannabis possession, Clean Indoor Air Act violations, and “unlawful acts.”
“They were forcible with the guides — forcibly removed them from the bus — two young girls, held their hands behind their back like criminals. Honestly, it was very heavy handed — and it was meant to send a message.” — Michael Eymer, CEO and founder of Colorado Cannabis Tours, via Denverite
Law enforcement spokesperson Jay Casillas denied that this was any new policy or initiative.
“Our policy is to enforce the laws that are currently in place. Consuming marijuana in public is illegal and that is why officers cited the people consuming marijuana illegally.” — Jay Casillas, in an email to Denverite
There are several cannabis tour companies in Denver which have operated without issue since just after legalization took effect. When contacted for comment, a spokesperson for the city’s Office of Marijuana Policy said he was not aware of the enforcement action.
Michael Eymer said his company will cover the cost of the citations for anyone on his bus. The total price is expected to run to $6,000 or more.
“They certainly ruined everybody’s fuckin’ vacation.” — Michael Eymer via Denverite
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