DC shuts down U Street marijuana shop, warns other businesses

WASHINGTON — The District’s Alcoholic Beverage and Cannabis Administration (ABCA) issued a closure order Thursday to one city business accused of selling marijuana and psychedelic mushrooms illegally.  

According to ABCA documents, Supreme Terpene was warned several times since April of 2024 and received a cease-and-desist order, but continued to defy orders. 

Following the most recent undercover investigation, the ABCA Board determined Supreme Terpene presented an “imminent danger to the health and safety of the public.”  The business was forced to close Thursday afternoon. 

The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) also seized all products.   

In April, a multi-agency Cannabis Enforcement Team conducted an investigation of Supreme Terpene. ABCA documents show the retailer was selling cannabis and a variety of cannabis products, including edible and flower containing THC. Additionally, the retailer did not have a Basic Business License. 

Investigators returned in July for a follow-up inspection and noticed mushrooms and edibles were still being sold.  Another warning was issued along with a cease-and-desist order. 

A subsequent investigation in late Aug. revealed Supreme Terpene was still selling marijuana using a “secret” website. MPD also tested some of the items purchased and a “positive result for THC and amphetamines was given,” according to the case report. 

A 2024 D.C. Council Act gives the ABCA broader powers to close unlicensed cannabis shops. Part of the legislation states, “ABCA shall have the authority to investigate an unlicensed retailer. If, after an investigation, ABCA determines that an unlicensed retailer has failed to comply with the provisions of this act, ABCA shall have the authority to summarily close the unlicensed retailer and seize any cannabis products inside the establishment.”

The owner of Supreme Terpene, Perry Young, can appeal this closure. 

Young  told WUSA9 that these are simply accusations, and he tried to meet with ABCA to discuss his plans to close the shop by month's end.  Young said ABCA failed to meet with him. 

The ABCA says 24 cease-and-desist orders have been issued to other cannabis shops in the District.