Virginia state senator indicted in federal drug trafficking probe: US attorney general

By Diyar Guldogan

WASHINGTON (AA) - US Attorney General Todd Blanche said Thursday that seven individuals had been arrested or surrendered in connection with an alleged large-scale racketeering, drug trafficking and money laundering conspiracy, including Virginia state Sen. Lillie Louise Lucas, the president pro tempore of the Virginia Senate.

“This morning, seven individuals were arrested or surrendered for allegedly participating in a large-scale RICO (Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act) drug trafficking and money laundering conspiracy,” Blanche said at a news conference.

Lucas has been indicted on five counts: racketeering conspiracy, conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute marijuana, conspiracy to launder money, conspiracy to commit honest services fraud and maintaining a drug-involved premises, said Blanche.

The defendants are in federal custody and initial appearances in federal court were expected later Thursday, according to Blanche.

FBI Director Kash Patel accused Lucas of using her public position to shield an alleged criminal operation.

“During her time as Virginia state senator, instead of enforcing the law, she was actually breaking the law as alleged in the indictment, and then using her position of power and public trust to deflect and defend against her own criminal enterprise,” said Patel.

Racketeering conspiracy charges are often brought under RICO, which prosecutors use to pursue alleged coordinated criminal activity.

Diyar Güldoğan