Police say they seized 250 pounds of process cannabis, 100 pounds of resin and $50,000 in Canadian cash during raids at all four Georgia Peach dispensaries in Hamilton Thursday.

In all, 25 employees were arrested and charged with possessing cannabis for the purpose of selling under the Cannabis Act, and possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000 under the Criminal Code.

They were released on a promise to appear in Hamilton court March 13.

Police also enforced another new provision in the Cannabis Act that allows them to seize the premises, bolting doors, changing locks and installing an alarm system at the four illegal dispensaries on George Street, Dundurn Street South and two on Upper James Street.

In addition to the cannabis, resin and cash, police said they also seized oil, edibles, THC-infused products, including bath bombs, and seven ATMs.

The warrants were led by the Provincial Joint Forces Cannabis Enforcement Team, which includes three seconded Hamilton officers, created specially to target illegal dispensaries.

All product seized is taken back to Hamilton police headquarters for processing by the vice and drug unit.

It remains unclear how new charges under the new Cannabis Act will be dealt with in court. Hamilton police are calling for stiff penalties to deter others from opening or reopening illegal businesses.

Before legalization, those charged would often get a "peace bond," police have said, making it difficult to permanently shutter dispensaries.

Right now, the only legal way to buy cannabis in Ontario is online through the Ontario Cannabis Store, with the first 25 stores expected to open in April.

noreilly@thespec.com

905-526-3199 | @NicoleatTheSpec

Loading... Loading... Loading... Loading... Loading... Loading...

- What happens to the marijuana after Hamilton police raid illegal dispensaries?

- Hamilton police execute warrants at Georgia Peach marijuana dispensary locations