Dispensary Planned For West Ridge Partially Owned By 10 Former Cops, Officials Say

Releaf, a proposed dispensary in West Ridge, would be co-owned by ten retired Chicago police officers and aims to be a community-focused business. If approved by the City Council, it would be the area's first dispensary, taking over a former restaurant space. During a virtual community meeting, concerns arose about the ethics of former law enforcement profiting from cannabis legalization. Kaneh Group, the startup behind Releaf, emphasizes its commitment to social equity, with 85% of its staff being Black and plans for community engagement. The dispensary intends to allocate 5% of its profits to a community trust, allowing neighbors to benefit financially.

Additionally, it will provide a communal space for local organizations and invite local artists to create murals on its facade. This project reflects a shift towards addressing the historical impacts of drug enforcement on minority communities. Company representatives assert their understanding and empathy towards those affected by past cannabis criminalization.