Drug enforcement officials say a sophisticated marijuana-distribution ring used popular candy and soda brand names in packaging their product. Pictured above are "Pot Tarts."
(KGO TV)More Photos
Federal drug enforcement agents in Northern California shut down an elaborate "marijuana candy" factory that produced drug-laced snacks called Rasta Reece's, Pot Tarts, and other parodies of popular products.
Authorities raided five locations Thursday, arresting 12 people for allegedly running the criminal enterprise.
Police say the group produced candy and soda that looked like popular treats but were laced with pot. Agents seized boxes of "treats" with names like Buddahfingers, Munchy Way, Rasta Reece's, Pot Tarts and Puff-a-Mint Pattie.
Drug Enforcement Administration agents said the sophisticated operation, which called itself Beyond Bomb, cultivated thousands of plants in warehouses with factorylike precision. Employees in one location wore white doctors' gowns and punched time clocks when they came to work, said officials.
One of the buildings that was raided in Oakland is associated with the Compassionate Caregivers Club, a medical marijuana dispensary, authorities said.
Between 4,000 and 5,000 marijuana plants, $100,000 in cash, three weapons and hundreds of marijuana-laced candies and soft drinks were seized in the raids, according to the DEA.
While the play on popular candy brands might bring on the giggles in some, drug agents said they could be dangerous in the wrong hands.
""This can be tragic. A young child or adult could eat one of these and drink one of the sodas," said the DEA's Javier Pena.
ABC News affiliate KGO and The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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