Investigation into Hemp 1848 Raises Questions About Hemp‑Derived THC Products in Wisconsin
Arrest and Searches
A Madison‑based investigation into Hemp 1848 has resulted in coordinated raids on several of the company’s locations and the arrest of its owner, Jerry McCoy, prompting statewide concerns about the legality of hemp‑derived THC products.
State officials say the probe centers on alleged unlawful sales of THC‑infused hemp items. McCoy was taken into custody after the searches, and prosecutors indicated that additional charges could follow.
Details about the specific items seized have not yet been disclosed by authorities.
Uncertainty Over Product Contents
Heather Barkholtz, an assistant professor at the University of Wisconsin‑Madison and a joint faculty member at the Wisconsin State Laboratory of Hygiene, explains that laboratory analyses frequently reveal gaps between product labels and actual chemical composition.
“There is oftentimes a large difference between what’s on the product label and what’s in the product,” Barkholtz said, adding that “unannounced impairing cannabinoids” can be present without warning.
She emphasized that consumers and retailers alike must rely on the information presented on packaging, because the true THC content may not be apparent from appearance alone.
“If someone’s selling a hemp‑derived cannabinoid product, they are essentially as reliant on the label as any consumer,” she noted, stressing that only laboratory testing can accurately determine the amount of Delta‑9 THC present.
Business Reaction and Community Response
Shymoohtha Komiic, supervisor of the Janesville outlet, expressed surprise at the investigation, saying he was unaware of any illegal activity at the business.
“Now, if it was something that was going on that I don’t know behind my back, then that’s another thing,” Komiic told reporters. “But as far as I know, we always keep things on the up and up around here.”
He also questioned why Hemp 1848 was singled out, pointing out that many other retailers offer similar hemp‑derived products. “What makes us so different than everybody else that they feel like we would do something illegal?” he asked.
A Hemp 1848 representative confirmed that employees and supporters plan to stage a protest at the Janesville store, asserting that the searches merit broader public attention and accountability.
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