NORFOLK, Va. — Federal authorities on Thursday charged a prominent Virginia Democrat with racketeering and a money laundering conspiracy as part of an alleged public corruption case involving a cannabis business she co-owns.
\n\nVirginia state Sen. L. Louise Lucas, a frequent critic of President Donald Trump who is one of the most powerful Democrats in the state, surrendered to authorities Thursday, the Justice Department spokesperson said. She was also charged with conspiracy to distribute marijuana. A half dozen others were also in custody and charged in the alleged scheme.
\n\nThe investigation into the 82-year-old Lucas predates the Trump administration, NBC News previously reported. But the Justice Department’s move, just 12 days before a midterm election, is unusual, as federal authorities have typically avoided taking overt investigative steps against political figures so close to an election. Lucas is not up for re-election this year but has ties to prominent Democrats who are on the ballot.
\n\nNBC News has reached out to Lucas’ office, her legal counsel and Democratic Gov. Abigail Spanberger for comment.
\n\nAttorney General Todd Blanche and FBI Director Kash Patel were expected to hold a press conference about the arrest in Norfolk, Virginia.
\n\nIn May, federal agents searched Lucas’…
Original source: https://www.nbcnews.com/business