In recent weeks, a wave of smash-and-grab robberies has targeted cannabis dispensaries across Los Angeles County, sparking growing concern among business owners—both high-profile and independent. Among the latest victims is The Woods, a West Hollywood cannabis dispensary and consumption lounge co-owned by Hollywood actor Woody Harrelson and political commentator Bill Maher.
Early Saturday morning, security footage captured a disturbing scene at The Woods WeHo. A car drove straight through the storefront’s glass facade, creating a point of entry. Moments later, four more suspects emerged from a second vehicle, all dressed in hoodies and carrying large trash bags. The suspects swarmed the store, ransacking shelves and making off with thousands of dollars in merchandise. The entire heist lasted just three to four minutes.
This incident follows a nearly identical robbery at a sister location in West LA. That dispensary, part of the Urban Markets chain, was targeted in the same way: a vehicle crashed through the front windows at around 5 a.m. The store's owner reported that five individuals attempted to loot the premises before security personnel intervened and fired three warning shots. The intruders quickly fled the scene.
Unfortunately, this is not the first time The Woods in West Hollywood has been hit. In November 2024, the dispensary was the site of another smash-and-grab incident. That time, the suspects were in and out in under 15 seconds, seizing what they could before disappearing into the night.
These repeated attacks highlight a larger trend of cannabis-related businesses being targeted by organized crime groups. The cash-heavy nature of the industry, combined with high-value merchandise, makes dispensaries particularly vulnerable. Owners are increasingly frustrated, citing the lack of quick police response and limited prevention tools available to legal cannabis businesses.
Adding to the concern is the location of these crimes. West Hollywood is known for its vibrant nightlife and high pedestrian traffic, yet it lacks easy freeway access—making the swift getaways seen in the videos even more troubling. In contrast, the West LA location is directly adjacent to freeway entrances, possibly offering an easier escape route for criminals.
Law enforcement agencies have yet to make arrests in connection with the recent crimes, but they continue to review surveillance footage and appeal to the public for any information. In the meantime, dispensary owners—regardless of celebrity backing—are stepping up security and calling for increased police support to stem the tide of these brazen thefts.
As the cannabis industry continues to grow in Southern California, so too does the need for stronger safeguards to protect these businesses from further attacks.
