American Man Arrested for Orchestrating “Cannabis Tours” in Colombia

In the realm of unconventional tourism, the concept of “high tourism” has taken an intriguing turn in Colombia. Recently, an American man, known colloquially as “Cannabis Jimmy,” made headlines for his involvement in orchestrating what authorities are calling “cannabis tours” in the country, offering participants an immersive experience into the world of marijuana.

Exploring Cannabis Tours

According to reports from CBS News, the 73-year-old American utilized social media platforms and even maintained a dedicated website to promote his “Cannabis Farm tours.” These tours, priced at $30 each, offered foreigners the opportunity to visit his residence located in Sabaneta, a town situated south of the city of Medellín in northwestern Colombia, as disclosed by the Colombian national police.

The allure of these tours wasn’t merely educational; they came with complimentary cannabis samples and were tailored for small groups ranging from 2 to 8 individuals. Promotional flyers distributed by the American, affectionately dubbed “Cannabis Jimmy,” boasted of exclusive insights and hands-on experiences provided during the tours. Interested participants were required to make advance reservations to secure their spot.

Inside Cannabis Jimmy’s World

During the 2–3 hour-long tours, Cannabis Jimmy played the role of an instructor, guiding visitors through the intricate process of planting, nurturing, harvesting, and maintaining cannabis plants, as detailed by law enforcement officials. Additionally, participants were offered the opportunity to purchase marijuana at a rate of $20 per gram, further enhancing the experiential aspect of the tour.

Unveiling Cannabis Jimmy’s Identity

While Colombian authorities refrained from disclosing the individual’s identity, they confirmed that he was indeed an American citizen. Following a raid on his residence, law enforcement officials seized approximately 1,380 grams of marijuana, resulting in the subsequent arrest of the individual.

Colombia’s Cannabis Landscape

In Colombia, the legal landscape surrounding cannabis is nuanced. While medical cannabis and industrial hemp are permitted, the sale of marijuana remains strictly prohibited. Individuals are allowed to cultivate up to 20 plants and carry up to 20 grams for personal use, in accordance with Colombian law.

Cocaine Capital and Cannabis Contradictions

Colombia’s association with narcotics extends beyond cannabis, as it stands as the world’s largest exporter of cocaine, supplying nearly 90% of the cocaine sold in the United States annually. This juxtaposition underscores the complex interplay between illicit drug trade and the evolving legal frameworks surrounding cannabis in the country.

As the case of “Cannabis Jimmy” unfolds, it serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges and contradictions within Colombia’s cannabis landscape, where legality and illicit activities intersect in unexpected ways.