Cannabutter cookies like mom never made leads to marijuana-related baker bust

There seems to be some misunderstanding about marijuana law in Colorado. Medical marijuana has been legalized via Amendment 20, although there are plenty of disagreements about how the system should work, as our interview with Senator Chris Romer earlier today proves. But while possession of small amounts of marijuana has...

By Michael Roberts

March 29, 2010

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There seems to be some misunderstanding about marijuana law in Colorado. Medical marijuana has been legalized via Amendment 20, although there are plenty of disagreements about how the system should work, as our interview with Senator Chris Romer earlier today proves. But while possession of small amounts of marijuana has been decriminalized in some Colorado communities, weed remains illegal in most places in the state.

Which brings us to Alisha and Jessie Vriese, both 27, who apparently thought Colorado Springs authorities would have no problem with them selling marijuana cookies called "Canookies" in regular convenience stores.

Turns out the CSP did -- despite the presence of a smiley-face stamp on the packaging. Look below for details from the department release about the Vrieses' marijuana-distribution arrest.

Incident Date: March 27, 2010

Time: 3:45:00 AM

Location: 2290 Skyview Lane #3101

Summary: On 03/26/2010 at approximately 0426hrs, Officer Benni Johnson and Officer Chris Chenoweth launched an investigation into distribution of cannabis by way of selling "Cannabutter" Cookies. The investigation began after a male suspect, later identified as Jessie Vriese, provided a local convenience store clerk with a free sample of the cookies and a business card stating that he and his wife were making the cookies and trying to sell them. The clerk provided the cookies and card to Officer Johnson.

During the following 24hrs, the officers made contact with the suspects via cell phone and arranged a purchase of the cookies. During the subsequent research and activities, officers located and identified the home and vehicle of the suspect couple and obtained a search warrant.

The warrant was served on 3/27/2010 at 0345hrs at an apartment in the 2200 block of Skyview Lane. Officers discovered evidence of the baking and production of the cookies as well as packaging, labeling and storage of the items as well. Officers recovered 73 ounces of packaged cookies (114 total cookies).

Alisha and Jessie Vriese were both arrested and booked for Offenses Relating to Marijuana (Distribution).

"Cannabutter" is a marijuana concoction that is used in cooking and delivers the THC in marijuana to the eater. It is believed to have the same effect as smoking marijuana.

The particular cookies recovered were labeled as "Canookies" with a smiley face stamp on the label and came two to a package in vacuum sealed plastic.

Adults Arrested: Alisha Vriese, Age 27, Jessie Vriese, Age 27

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Michael Roberts began his career with Westword in 1990 as music editor. In 1999, he took on a new role, full-time media reporter, as author of a column called The Message. In 2008, he became the lead writer for Westword's news blog, The Latest Word, a position he held until January 2023. Michael continues to freelance for Westword, covering everything from business to sports and the media; he also contributes to Jazziz, a national music magazine. He holds a bachelor's degree from what is now Colorado Mesa University and master's degrees from the University of California, Los Angeles, and Northwestern University.

Contact: Michael Roberts

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