Harborside Health Center Outlasts California’s US Attorney Melinda Haag Era

OAKLAND, CA — On Wednesday, U.S. Attorney Melinda Haag from Northern California announced her departure, effective September 1.

Since 2011 Ms. Haag shuttered more than 600 state-compliant medical cannabis dispensaries by threatening to seize their leased properties from landlords. Haag claimed she launched her actions because the properties were less than 1000 feet from a school, park or playground.

Haag’s crusade largely ended in July of 2012 after she targeted Harborside Health Center, which she admitted was not close to a sensitive site. Harborside fought back in state and local court, and won multiple decisions that have allowed it and other state-compliant dispensaries to remain open ever since.

The City of Oakland subsequently filed suit against Haag and the Department of…