Convicted felon arrested for illegal pot operation

MOSES LAKE — A convicted felon was arrested for the second time in five years for running an illegal marijuana business.

Members of Grant County’s Interagency Narcotics Enforcement Team (INET) reportedly served a search warrant on Thursday at the residence of Stephen R. Sandberg, 58, of Moses Lake, in the 10700 block of Grace Lane Northeast. Detectives reportedly had information that Sandberg was running an online marijuana retail business, according to the Grant County Sheriff’s Office.

A total of 75 marijuana plants, more than 15 pounds of processed marijuana and several marijuana “derivatives” were seized at the Grace Lane residence. Sandberg was previously arrested by INET in 2012 at the same residence. A subsequent felony conviction prohibited Sandberg from operating a legal marijuana business. Sandberg’s drug conviction came before Washington legalized marijuana in 2013, the sheriff’s office stated.

"Mr. Sandberg is not a licensed marijuana retailer, and the law states that those applying for a retailer's license cannot have a felony conviction in the last 10 years," Sheriff Tom Jones said. "That law helps protect those who legally use marijuana and adds a level of integrity to Washington's marijuana retail industry."

Richard Byrd can be reached via email at city@columbiabasinherald.com.