The legalisation of cannabis in California, a move hailed for its progressive stance and potential to curb illegal trade, has paradoxically seen a shift rather than a decline in criminal activities associated with the drug. This development poses significant questions about the efficacy of legalisation as a tool for reducing crime rates. Despite the optimism surrounding the creation of a regulated marijuana market, law enforcement agencies report a persistent and, in some areas, escalating incidence of crime related to cannabis. From thefts targeting lucrative cultivation sites to an increase in black market activities exploiting regulatory loopholes, the outcomes challenge initial expectations. This evolving scenario underscores the complex relationship between drug policy reform and public safety, revealing a landscape where legalisation inadvertently fosters new avenues for criminal conduct.

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