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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
Alanna Durkin Richer and Sarah Rankin

Virginia state Sen. Louise Lucas charged with drug trafficking and money laundering, DOJ says

Virginia Senate President pro tempore Louise Lucas, D-Portsmouth, listens to debate on the Senate floor, Feb. 17, 2026, in Richmond, Va. - (AP Photo/Ryan M. Kelly)

Federal prosecutors have charged Virginia state Sen. L. Louise Lucas with drug trafficking and money laundering, accusing the veteran Democrat of leading a criminal enterprise that acquired and distributed large quantities of marijuana and laundered the proceeds.

An indictment unsealed Thursday charged Lucas and six other defendants, including several of her relatives, the Department of Justice said in a statement ahead of a news conference scheduled for 10 a.m. A Justice Department spokesperson said Lucas self surrendered.

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