Da Kine owner hit with more charges
New charges have been laid against the owner of the Da Kine Smoke and Beverage Shop, the Commercial Drive pot cafe recently raided by police.
- FROM SEPT. 10, 2004: Commercial Drive pot shop busted
 Carol Gwilt |
Police spokesperson Const. Sarah Bloor says officers found more than six kilograms of marijuana and more than $10,000 in cash in the vehicle.
"We hope that this definitely will dismantle their operation," says Bloor.
"We make it very clear that this is still an illegal drug trafficking, criminal enterprise that continues at the Da Kine cafe. It's no small compassion club."
- INDEPTH: Marijuana
The Da Kine caught the attention of police earlier this month after media reports of the pot sales.
Police raided the shop on Sept. 9, arresting Gwilt and seven employees on charges of possessing marijuana for the purpose of trafficking. Gwilt was also charged with possessing the proceeds of crime.
The eight were released from custody on condition they stay away from marijuana, or any place where pot is present.
- FROM SEPT. 10, 2004: Vancouver pot shop busy again
Bloor says police are investigating other pot shops, and are prepared to take action against them.
"We will make it very clear that if they are operating in a criminal and illegal manner, that the police are aware and that charges could be imminent."
- FROM SEPT. 8, 2004: Top cop wants to shut down pot shops