Increase in cannabis shop burglaries in Portland

In Portland, Oregon, cannabis businesses are facing a rise in burglaries and armed robberies. On Monday, two pot shops were targeted. At about 4 a.m., burglars drove vehicles through the front of Lemonnade PDX Dispensary and stole cannabis products, leaving within six minutes. Police reported this incident was one of two burglaries that happened in quick succession. The Oregon Liquor and Cannabis Commission (OLCC) has warned cannabis businesses about the uptick in thefts. The agency issued a bulletin advising businesses to stay alert, particularly during opening and closing hours when cash might be available. They recommend having multiple employees on duty and ensuring security systems are operational. The spike in crime affects not just retailers but also growers and processors in the Portland area. The Cannabis Industry Alliance of Oregon reported that at least five businesses, including farms and wholesalers, experienced burglaries. They suggest that a group of around seven individuals may be coordinating these crimes, using stolen vehicles to break in and grab cannabis quickly. Following the burglary at Lemonnade, police pursued a vehicle linked to the crime, but they later abandoned the chase. Although officers found the vehicle later, they did not capture any suspects. Meanwhile, the police are investigating the earlier burglary at Brothers Cannabis Dispensary, where they found broken glass and missing products.