6 killings in likely cannabis dispute spotlight violence and risk in California’s illegal pot market

By MICHAEL R. BLOOD and CHRISTOPHER WEBER
Associated Press

LOS ANGELES (AP) — The slayings of six men last week that authorities believe stemmed from a soured illegal cannabis deal have spotlighted the continuing risks in California’s underground marijuana market. Illegal growing and sales have thrived in California despite years of legal operations that were expected to stamp it out. The killings discovered Jan. 23 provided a reminder of the violence that can come with illicit cannabis activity. Five suspects were arrested. Each face multiple charges. San Bernardino County District Attorney Jason Anderson says the killings illuminated “the violence and crime that exists as a direct consequence of illegal marijuana operations.”