Feds charge L. Louise Lucas, powerful Virginia Democrat, in alleged drug scheme

TL;DR

Virginia state Senator L. Louise Lucas, 82, surrendered to federal authorities and faces charges of bribery and racketeering.
The indictment alleges Lucas conspired to distribute and launder money through an illegal marijuana operation, using her political influence to benefit herself and co-defendants.
Lucas has denied the charges, comparing the government's actions to efforts to silence dissent and vowing to fight back.
The case comes six months after federal agents searched Lucas' office and a cannabis business she co-owns.
Prosecutors stated that Lucas accumulated nearly $5 million in alleged illicit gains from the scheme.
Lucas' daughters and grandson are also among the seven co-defendants in the indictment.
The timing of the indictment, shortly before midterm elections, has drawn criticism, though the Justice Department defended the decision.

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