It’s no secret that many of the largest businesses in the world have been involved in shady practices to get to where they are today. And there is unfortunately no exception when it comes to the cannabis industry. Earlier in August, the husband of Trulieve CEO Kim Rivers, John “JT” Burnette, was proven guilty on four different counts, including racketeering, extortion, fraud, and making false statements.
Now, Burnette has been convicted on public corruption charges and sentenced to three years in federal prison and fined $1.25 million.
Husband of Trulieve CEO Involved in Tweaking State Regulations
A recorded conversation between Burnette and undercover FBI agents revealed his involvement with “tweaking” state regulations. This includes restricting certain competitors from qualifying for a Florida medical marijuana business license. On the recording, Burnette went into detail about how he worked with then-State Rep. Halsey Beshears, brother of Trulieve board of director Thad Beshears, to make the changes possible.
The Capitolist reports the criteria Burnette was involved in, stating, “The added criteria required a nursery seeking an application to put up multi-million-dollar bonds, to have an inventory of 400,000 plants, and be in business for 30 consecutive years.” This restricts many small nurseries and minority-owned businesses from entering the medical cannabis market in Florida.
Prosecutors stated that Burnette used his “power and wealth to corrupt the political process.” Moreover, they believe he deserves up to eight years in prison.
Kim Rivers and Trulieve Remain “Uninvolved”
Even with her husband charged and sentenced, Kim Rivers, as well as Trulieve itself, remain untouched in this whole scandal. This is because Burnette has “had no formal involvement or participation in the formation of Trulieve, Inc.” according to Steve Vancore, a spokesman for Trulieve.
Additionally, Trulieve’s board released their own statement:
“Our thoughts are with [CEO Kim Rivers] at this time. She has done and is doing an outstanding job leading Trulieve and she continues to have our full support.”
The attorney of JT Burnette claims that they will appeal his conviction.
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