Adam Jackson
The Maryland Cannabis Administration ordered a summary suspension of Cookies Baltimore’s license for multiple violations of state cannabis laws and regulations, according to a document obtained from the MCA.
Cookies Baltimore, formally known as MIMD Operating 1 LLC, opened its doors on May 15 and found itself in hot water less than a month later. The court document details alleged breaches of both the Cannabis Reform Act and Code of Maryland Regulations.
An unannounced inspection by MCA on May 26 revealed several violations, prompting the authority to request compliance-related documents. Despite the request, Cookies Baltimore went operational the following day, seemingly without addressing the issues raised.
Investigators reportedly viewed public videos on the dispensary’s Instagram account, showing “large plumes of medical cannabis smoke” being blown into people’s mouths from a gun-like device emblazoned with a Cookies logo during the dispensary’s opening.
Additionally, the dispensary’s advertising on social media platforms, including LinkedIn and Instagram, allegedly contravened state laws, featuring:
- Cartoons attractive to minors
- Celebrity likenesses
- Non-cannabis trademarks
- Individuals using cannabis.
The MCA conducted a follow-up inspection on May 30, requesting surveillance footage and citing additional violations, including the removal of a secure door between the service and operations areas – a major security breach.
“This failure to maintain video surveillance footage constitutes an operational failure risking diversion and endangering the public’s health,” the court document stated. It further pointed out that the missing door could lead to uncontrolled access to the operation area, raising the risk of product diversion.
The MCA concluded that “the public health, safety, and welfare imperatively require emergency action in this case.” It subsequently issued an order on June 2, summarily suspending the dispensary’s license, prohibiting its operation and requesting the return of all license copies.
The document also granted Cookies Baltimore the opportunity to request a post-deprivation show cause hearing within 30 days. Should the dispensary fail to request or attend this hearing, the suspension will remain in effect.
As of press time, Cookies Baltimore has not publicly responded to the suspension.
