When Lt. Governor Dan Patrick announced Senate Bill 3 to ban all forms of THC in Texas, he drew from a familiar political playbook. His declaration that “thousands of stores have opened to sell all types of dangerous products with unlimited THC” echoes rhetoric used to justify cannabis prohibition in the 1930s, when claims about “reefer madness” helped drive federal policy.
The Texas Hemp Federation, through Executive Director Jay Maguire, responded: “The Lt. Governor’s characterization ignores basic facts about our industry. Legal hemp businesses employing thousands of Texans are providing safe, tested products while generating over a billion dollars in tax revenue. This isn’t about public safety – it’s about politics.”
Patrick’s announcement comes as multiple studies show regulated hemp markets reduce illegal sales and provide safer alternatives for consumers. States with strict regulation rather than prohibition consistently report better outcomes for both public health and law enforcement resources.
The timing is particularly notable given recent challenges to the “tough on drugs” political narrative. As more states move toward regulated markets, evidence continues to mount that prohibition creates more problems than it solves. Even traditionally conservative states have begun embracing hemp’s economic benefits while implementing sensible regulations.
Law enforcement perspectives have also evolved. Many departments now prefer focusing resources on actually dangerous substances rather than hemp products. Some Texas police chiefs have publicly stated that regulated hemp markets make their jobs easier by clearly distinguishing legal from illegal products.
The economic stakes are substantial. Beyond direct revenue and employment, Texas’ hemp industry supports numerous ancillary businesses from agriculture to retail. Local communities across the state have come to depend on hemp-related commerce and tax revenue for essential services.
“History teaches us that prohibition doesn’t eliminate demand – it just drives markets underground,” notes the Federation’s statement. “We’ve built a transparent, regulated industry that protects consumers and supports communities. Dismantling it would only benefit illegal operators.”
The proposed ban faces several hurdles, including potential federal preemption under the Farm Bill and likely legal challenges from affected businesses. Previous attempts at administrative prohibition have already been blocked by Texas courts.
For now, the industry continues operating under existing regulations while preparing for what promises to be a defining legislative battle. The outcome may well determine whether Texas embraces evidence-based policy or returns to failed strategies of the past.
[Note: This article represents ongoing coverage. The Texas Hemp Reporter will continue following developments as this story unfolds.]
A Travis County jury has issued a unanimous and decisive verdict against Sweet Sensi, awarding CenTex CBD $95,722 in exemplary damages in addition to compensatory damages. The case, which began as a simple $3,400 product complaint, escalated into a contentious two-year legal battle marked by accusations of trade secret theft, allegations of corporate bullying, and questions about ethical practices in the hemp industry.
The verdict not only vindicates CenTex CBD but sends a powerful message to manufacturers and legal professionals about the importance of honesty, consumer safety, and accountability. For the Corrigan family, who run the family-owned CenTex CBD, this victory is bittersweet, reflecting the enormous personal and financial toll the litigation took on their lives.
From a Quality Complaint to a Two-Year Legal Odyssey
In August 2022, the relationship between CenTex CBD and Sweet Sensi—once a promising partnership—collapsed over a shipment of defective gummies. The gummies, coated with green sugar instead of the usual red and containing more than double the labeled Delta-8 THC potency, immediately raised red flags.
“When I opened the box, I couldn’t believe what I was seeing,” said Jennifer Gregg, Co-Owner of CenTex CBD. “These weren’t just a little off—they looked like a joke.”
Testing confirmed that the gummies were unsafe for sale, and CenTex approached Sweet Sensi to resolve the issue professionally. CenTex expected a simple refund or replacement. Instead, Sweet Sensi terminated their relationship and escalated the matter by filing counterclaims of trade secret theft—a move that would set the stage for two years of grueling litigation.
“We were completely blindsided,” said Judy Corrigan, owner of CenTex CBD. “We thought we were working with a trusted partner, but their response felt like an attack on everything we stood for.”
The High Stakes of Product Quality and Safety
The defective gummies represented more than just a cosmetic error. In an industry heavily reliant on consumer trust, accurate labeling and potency consistency are paramount. Hemp-derived products like Delta-8 THC gummies require precise dosing to ensure consumer safety, especially given their psychoactive properties.
“When we discovered the gummies contained more than double the labeled potency, we knew we couldn’t sell them,” Corrigan explained. “It would have been irresponsible and potentially dangerous.”
This safety concern was a central theme throughout the trial, as the jury heard evidence that Sweet Sensi had deviated from standard manufacturing practices without explanation. “We learned that an employee was instructed to use green sugar,” Corrigan said. “Why they did that, we still don’t know. But the bottom line is that the product was defective, and they refused to take responsibility.”
The Legal and Ethical Fallout
The case took a dramatic turn when Sweet Sensi’s attorney, Lisa Pittman, faced sanctions for misconduct. Pittman was found to have improperly contacted CenTex’s expert witness, Wyatt Larew, who was also her former client. During sworn testimony, Larew recounted how Pittman attempted to intimidate him, telling him to withdraw and suggesting he “have a contingency plan” in case of arrest.
These actions prompted Judge Karin Crump to remind Pittman of her Fifth Amendment rights—a rare and significant moment highlighting the gravity of her behavior. “This isn’t just about an attorney crossing a line,” said one legal observer. “This is about undermining the integrity of the judicial process.”
Pittman’s conduct during the trial further undermined Sweet Sensi’s case. She was repeatedly reprimanded for inappropriate behavior, including laughing during testimony and making improper comments. The jury, already skeptical of Sweet Sensi’s claims, appeared further convinced of the company’s bad faith by their attorney’s antics.
The Cost of Defending the Truth
For the CenTex family, the litigation came at a steep price. Over two years, they faced mounting legal fees, lost business opportunities, and relentless stress. “This lawsuit consumed our lives,” said Adam Gregg, Judy’s son and business partner. “We had to put nearly everything else on hold just to defend ourselves.”
The lawsuit also strained the family’s relationships within the hemp industry. “We withdrew from networking and industry events because we assumed people would side with Sweet Sensi,” said Corrigan. “It was isolating.”
Employees at CenTex CBD also felt the impact. “We tried to shield them from the worst of it, but they knew what was going on,” Corrigan said. “Their support meant the world to us.”
Despite these challenges, the family remained resolute. “We knew we had done nothing wrong,” said Adam Gregg. “We couldn’t let them bully us into submission.”
Jury Rejects Sweet Sensi’s Claims
After careful deliberation, the jury delivered a unanimous verdict in favor of CenTex on all counts. They found that Sweet Sensi had engaged in knowing constructive fraud, violated the Texas Deceptive Trade Practices Act, and breached warranty. The awards included:
$9,994 for loss of benefit of the bargain
$3,400 for out-of-pocket expenses
$6,594 for lost profits
$95,722 in exemplary damages
The exemplary damages—nearly five times the actual damages—were a clear rebuke of Sweet Sensi’s conduct. Under Texas law, such damages are reserved for cases where malice or gross negligence is proven.
“We were just trying to resolve a quality issue, and instead we were vilified,” Corrigan said. “The jury saw through the smoke and mirrors and gave us the justice we deserved.”
Broader Implications for the Hemp Industry
The case has significant implications for the Texas hemp industry, particularly regarding product safety and accountability. Accurate labeling and potency testing are critical in an industry where consumers rely on transparency and consistency.
“This wasn’t just about green sugar on gummies,” said Corrigan. “It was about ensuring that consumers can trust what’s on the label.”
The jury’s verdict sends a strong message to manufacturers that cutting corners on quality control will not be tolerated. “Testing isn’t optional,” said Adam Gregg. “Companies that ignore safety standards are putting consumers at risk and will face the consequences.”
The case also highlights the need for stricter regulatory oversight. “We need clear, enforceable rules around testing and labeling,” said Corrigan. “Without them, companies like Sweet Sensi will continue to operate without accountability.”
A Failed PR Campaign
In an attempt to sway public opinion, Sweet Sensi launched a media campaign that included a paid advertorial and an open letter accusing CenTex of harming the industry. These efforts, however, backfired.
The jury’s findings contradicted Sweet Sensi’s claims, and the company’s attempt to frame itself as a victim only further eroded its credibility. “Their PR strategy was as baseless as their counterclaims,” said Corrigan.
Moving Forward: Lessons Learned
For CenTex CBD, the verdict is both a vindication and a reminder of the challenges small businesses face in standing up to larger companies. “We learned a lot about the importance of due diligence and the value of integrity,” Corrigan said.
The family remains committed to their mission of providing high-quality, safe hemp products. “This experience has been traumatic, but it hasn’t shaken our belief in the potential of this industry,” Corrigan said.
A Victory for Ethics and Accountability
The Travis County jury’s unanimous verdict represents more than a resolution of a business dispute. It is a reaffirmation of core principles: that consumers deserve safe, accurately labeled products, that manufacturers must be held accountable, and that justice can prevail even in the face of aggressive tactics.
“This case wasn’t just about us,” said Corrigan. “It was about standing up for what’s right. And we hope it inspires others to do the same.”
This expanded article now includes additional context, quotes, and reflections while deepening the discussion of industry implications and the human cost of the litigation. Let me know if there are specific areas you’d like to expand further!
The Cost of Outdated Perceptions and Misguided Enforcement
Recent statements by Collin County law enforcement officials regarding THCa products derived from hemp reveal the lingering influence of an outdated “drug warrior” mentality – a relic of the War on Drugs era that continues to skew perceptions of hemp and its derivatives. This clash between old-school thinking and new legal realities has all the hallmarks of a classic moral panic, with devastating consequences for innocent business owners and their communities.
The Shadows of the War on Drugs
For decades, law enforcement operated under a drug warrior worldview that often led to oversimplified, “us vs. them” thinking. This mentality persists even as laws and scientific understanding evolve, distorting the reality of hemp-derived products. Complex issues are reduced to black-and-white thinking, seen in the blanket categorization of THCa products as “illegal narcotics,” despite their legal status under both federal and Texas law when derived from compliant hemp. Years of viewing all cannabis-related substances as inherently dangerous leads to automatic assumptions about new products, unsupported by current evidence.
The nuanced legal landscape, with careful delineations between hemp and marijuana based on THC content, requires a more sophisticated understanding that old-school drug warrior thinking struggles to accommodate. Amplifying potential dangers to create urgency was a hallmark of drug war rhetoric. This is evident in the inflammatory language used to describe THCa products and their effects, often without solid evidence. The instinct to respond with increased enforcement and criminalization overlooks more effective harm reduction strategies and the potential benefits of regulation over prohibition.
Moral Panic in Action
These biases fuel what sociologists term a “moral panic” – an exaggerated societal reaction to a perceived threat. Key elements of this panic are evident in the officials’ statements. Claims of THC percentages as high as 78% likely stem from flawed testing methods. Accurate testing of THCa requires high-performance liquid chromatography with mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS), not the gas chromatography methods that can decarboxylate THCa during testing, inflating THC percentages.
Dire warnings about future harm, particularly to youth, ignore the industry’s age verification efforts and lack supporting evidence. Terms like “illegal narcotics” and comparisons to dangerous drugs like K2 and opioids symbolically link legal hemp products to illicit substances. The hemp industry and consumers are portrayed as threatening “folk devils,” with loaded language implying intentional harm to youth.
A united front implies widespread agreement about the danger, despite significant legal and scientific disagreement. Calls for prohibition and strict enforcement appear disproportionate to any demonstrated harm from legal hemp products. The sudden intensity of concern, despite these products being on the market for years, reflects the volatile nature of moral panics.
This rhetoric eerily echoes the “Reefer Madness” era, when exaggerated claims about marijuana led to decades of harmful prohibition. Learning from history is crucial to avoid repeating such mistakes.
The Human Cost of Misguided Enforcement
The recent raids on hemp businesses in Collin County have inflicted significant harm on innocent business owners and their communities. These actions, based on misunderstandings of law and flawed testing methods, have far-reaching consequences that extend beyond mere financial losses.
When law enforcement wrongly raids a store, the impact on business owners is severe and multifaceted. Financial devastation can occur as seized inventory and cash potentially cripple a small business, leading to permanent closure. Even if charges are eventually dropped, the immediate loss of income can be insurmountable. The fear of prosecution looms large, even when owners have operated in good faith. Legal fees and the stress of potential criminal charges take a heavy toll.
Raids can tarnish a business’s reputation, leading to loss of customers and strained relationships with neighbors. The stigma associated with a police raid can linger long after the legal issues are resolved. The stress of legal troubles and financial insecurity can put immense pressure on family relationships, potentially leading to lasting damage.
Business owners often experience anxiety, depression, and PTSD-like symptoms in the aftermath of a raid (such is the case with Hunter Robinson who was raided in Navarro County). The sudden loss of security and stability can be profoundly traumatizing. These actions can shatter business owners’ trust in law enforcement and the legal system, leading to a sense of vulnerability and isolation.
This heavy-handed approach is particularly troubling given that shop owners rely on certificates of analysis from accredited laboratories to verify the legality of their products. These business owners do not deserve such overbearing treatment when they have taken reasonable steps to ensure compliance with the law.
Moving Beyond Panic
Recognizing these biases is crucial for developing effective, reality-based policies around hemp products. A new paradigm is needed that acknowledges the legal status of hemp and its derivatives, bases decisions on current scientific evidence, focuses on responsible regulation rather than blanket criminalization, recognizes the economic potential of the hemp industry, and prioritizes education and harm reduction over fear-mongering.
A more appropriate approach to addressing concerns about potentially controversial products would involve open dialogue between law enforcement, regulators, and business owners to clarify legal standards and expectations. Educational outreach to help businesses understand and comply with relevant laws and regulations is essential. Clear guidelines on product testing and documentation should be established to ensure consistency and reliability. A gradual enforcement approach that begins with warnings and opportunities for correction before resorting to raids and seizures would be more just and effective.
Industry Response and Action
The hemp industry recognizes the importance of addressing concerns and demonstrating a commitment to responsible practices. Actions are being taken on multiple fronts, including pursuing legal clarification through the courts, engaging with state lawmakers to develop clear, science-based regulations, and implementing industry self-regulation measures such as strict age-gating practices and standardized testing protocols.
The goal is to create a robust regulatory framework that ensures product safety and consumer protection while allowing the hemp industry to thrive. All stakeholders are invited to join in this effort to move beyond fear-based reactions and towards evidence-based policies that serve the public interest.
By adopting a more measured and collaborative approach, law enforcement can address legitimate concerns without inflicting unnecessary harm on law-abiding business owners and their communities. This would foster a climate of trust and cooperation, rather than fear and antagonism, ultimately serving the best interests of public safety and economic stability. It’s time for a new era of understanding and cooperation between law enforcement, the hemp industry, and the public they all serve.
Hemp Industry in Allen, Texas Under Fire: Recent Raids Spark Controversy
The hemp industry in Allen, Texas is facing a significant challenge following a series of raids
conducted by local law enforcement on several hemp retailers. On Aug. 27, the Allen
Police Department targeted nine out of 25 hemp retailers in the city, all of whom were members of
the 10-member Allen Hemp Coalition. This selective approach has ignited a heated debate
about the legality of certain hemp-derived products and the methods employed by law
enforcement.
Images: AJ Velador ( HILT)
AJ Velador, Founder of Hemp Industry Leaders of Texas (HILT), has spoken out forcefully
against these raids, describing them as not merely an attack on law-abiding businesses; they
represent a dangerous erosion of our democratic values and the rule of law.
The timing of these raids is particularly controversial, coming shortly after recent legal victories
where Allen business owners successfully quashed DEA subpoenas and prevailed in court. This
sequence of events has led to accusations of retaliation. Critics argue that the selective
targeting suggests unfair retaliation against recent legal triumphs, emphasizing that in America,
we are governed by the rule of law, not arbitrary police action.
The businesses affected by the raids claim they have been operating within the bounds of the
law, selling hemp-derived products that they believe to be legal under current regulations. These
establishments are described as pillars of their communities, run by respectable, family-oriented
entrepreneurs pursuing the American dream. Many assert that they have diligently complied
with all applicable laws and regulations, even implementing voluntary age restrictions and other
responsible practices that exceed legal requirements.
However, local law enforcement appears to have a different interpretation of the law, particularly
concerning the THC content of these products. Industry advocates point out a potential
misunderstanding in the application of the law, particularly regarding the reliance on total THC
measurements rather than the legally relevant Delta 9 THC content.
The raids have resulted in the seizure of products and, in some cases, arrests of business
owners and employees. This has created significant economic hardship for the affected
businesses and raised concerns about due process and the appropriate use of law enforcement
resources.
The situation has created tension between the hemp industry and local law enforcement.
Industry representatives argue that they have been proactive in self-regulation and have sought
to work collaboratively with authorities to establish clear guidelines. HILT and its predecessor
organizations have advocated for sensible regulation, including age restrictions, since 2019.
In response to the raids, industry leaders have called on Allen Police Chief Steve Dye to cease
these actions, return all seized property to the business owners and engage in a cordial
discussion to reach a peaceful resolution. They are urging lawmakers to engage with them in
crafting legislation that protects consumers while allowing legal businesses to operate without
fear of persecution.
As the controversy unfolds, both sides are preparing for potential legal battles. The outcome of
this conflict could have far-reaching implications for the hemp industry not only in Allen but
potentially across Texas and beyond. The industry maintains that the products in question are
legal, hemp-derived cannabinoids that serve crucial wellness purposes for countless Texans.
Velador emphasizes the broader implications of these actions: In a free society, disagreements
are settled in courts and legislatures, not through police raids and intimidation. The actions of
the Allen police are not just an assault on these businesses; they are an affront to the values
that define us as Texans and as Americans.
As the legal process unfolds, HILT is taking action to support the affected businesses. They are
currently raising funds for the legal defense of those arrested during the raids. Those interested
in supporting this effort can contribute through the following GoFundMe link:
This ongoing situation underscores the complex and often contentious relationship between
emerging industries, existing laws, and law enforcement interpretation. As the hemp industry
continues to evolve, it is clear that clearer regulations and better communication between all
stakeholders will be crucial to avoid similar conflicts in the future.
In a pivotal move this week, the Texas Senate State Affairs Committee convened to explore potential pathways for banning Delta-8 THC, following a directive from Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick. The hearing laid bare a host of issues that have thrust this hemp-derived compound into the eye of a growing storm.
Given its current legal status in Texas under the temporary injunction in the Sky Marketing case, Delta-8 THC products have become ubiquitous, which some witnesses said foster a dangerous misconception among consumers who believe they are purchasing a safe, regulated product. This situation stands in stark contrast to other states, even conservative ones, that have established comprehensive medical cannabis programs. Law enforcement finds itself in a quandary, as current technology struggles to distinguish between legal hemp and illegal cannabis products.
While cannabis earns praise for its superior efficacy in managing nerve pain compared to traditional medications, Delta-8 THC raises red flags, particularly concerning children’s health. A troubling surge in pediatric cases involving accidental ingestion has resulted in severe health issues. Experts and activists also sounded alarm bells about the potential for psychosis, especially among chronic users and children, underscoring the urgent need for stringent safety measures.
The hearing exposed gaping holes in the current regulatory framework. Many manufacturers self-report certificates of analysis, a practice that often leads to inaccurate product labeling. Enforcement is largely hamstrung, limited to food safety violations and products exceeding the 0.3% Delta 9 THC threshold. The state’s lack of jurisdiction over out-of-state labs further muddies the waters of quality control.
Ironically, the proliferation of Delta-8 THC is undermining Texas’s own highly restricted medical cannabis program. These products, which navigate fewer regulatory hurdles, are more affordable and accessible, causing a worrying decline in the state’s patient base. An influx of out-of-state products further complicates the market, making regulation an increasingly uphill battle.
A particularly disquieting issue is the proximity of Delta-8 THC sales in proximity to schools and other child-centric areas. This accessibility, paired with the alarming rise in accidental ingestion cases among children, has ratcheted up public safety concerns. Advocates are pushing for stricter regulations on packaging and marketing to prevent these products from appealing to minors.
In response to these challenges, the committee is weighing several consequential actions. They are considering revising Delta-8’s legal status to align with other states’ medical cannabis frameworks, enhancing product testing and certification standards, and bolstering enforcement mechanisms and of course, banning it outright. Additionally, they’re looking at regulating the influx of out-of-state products, launching targeted public health initiatives to protect children, and establishing proximity restrictions near schools.
Looking ahead, the committee plans to gather more data on Delta-8’s public health impact and engage a broad spectrum of stakeholders. Law enforcement, medical professionals, and industry representatives will all have a seat at the table as Texas works to forge a consensus on these critical changes. As the Lone Star State grapples with this complex issue, its decisions could reverberate across the nation, influencing the future of cannabis regulation in America.
