All charges dismissed for Tennessee stores accused of selling CBD candy

Published: Mar 1, 2018, 1:35 pm • Updated: Mar 1, 2018, 1:35 pm

By The Associated Press

MURFREESBORO, Tenn. (AP) — Authorities have dropped all charges in connection with “Operation Candy Crush,” a sting that targeted Tennessee stores accused of selling candy and other products containing a form of marijuana.

District Attorney General Jennings H. Jones said in a Wednesday release that the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation has backed off its initial determinations. The TBI said investigators could not determine whether the cannabidiol in the products derived from marijuana or hemp.

Related stories

• Use of CBD oil by prescription approved by Idaho House bill
• Lawsuit challenging Sessions and DEA on marijuana’s Schedule I status dismissed by federal judge
• Georgia medical marijuana advocate Rep. Allen Peake won’t run for re-election

Jones says the TBI had previously assured his office that the 23 Rutherford County stores were selling products infused with illegal controlled substances, which formed the basis for nuisance actions and the indictments of 21 people.

TBI spokesman Josh Devine said in a statement to WSMV-TV that the agency’s role in laboratory work was to objectively analyze evidence, not determine legality.

Information from: WSMV-TV

Related: Tennessee Republicans introduce CBD oil bill