Anyone involved with the marijuana retail industry in Massachusetts could be targeted as federal laws are about to be enforced. New U.S. Attorney for Massachusetts Andrew Lelling says anyone from an hourly wage employee at a marijuana dispensary to a bank that opens an account for a pot shop could be subject to prosecution.

Lelling told reporters on Wednesday that he has been instructed by the Department of Justice to enforce federal laws which supersede those in states that have chosen to legalize marijuana. He says opioid crimes will be his top drug enforcement priority going forward.

The DOJ has also listed 23 districts or jurisdictions considered to be sanctuaries for illegal aliens that it intends to put the squeeze on, including Lawrence, Massachusetts.

The Trump Administration says it may subpoena those jurisdictions to force proof that they are complying with federal immigration officials or they could risk federal grant monies. New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago are among the other locations.

Lelling told reporters;

"When it comes to immigration enforcement, we will be more aggressive."

 

"I think you will see increased immigration enforcement from my office."

And Lelling says his office will continue to investigate and prosecute government corruption in Massachusetts;

"It's still a priority for the office."

 

"Public corruption cases, you need the feds."

That's music to the ears of Massachusetts residents who have seen three of the last House Speakers and the former Senate President all resign under a cloud of suspicion.

There is a new sheriff in the White House and he is holding true to his pledge to enforce the law.  How refreshing is that for a change?

Editor's Note: Barry Richard is the afternoon host on 1420 WBSM New Bedford. He can be heard weekdays from Noon-3 p.m. The opinions expressed in this commentary are solely those of the author.

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