Medical Cannabis Security: From Seed to Sale

By Tim Sutton, CPP

In more states than not and in an increasing number of countries around the world, medical cannabis security has become a unique new challenge. In the U.S., twenty-nine states and the District of Columbia have enacted laws legalizing medical cannabis. Cultivation, processing, and dispensing organizations present both shared and unique risks and each state has its own set of rules, regulations, and governing bodies. Join us as we move through all phases of medical cannabis security, beginning with the permit application and continuing through to patient sales. Explore how to demonstrate compliance with varying rules and regulations while providing a safe and secure environment for employees and patients. Study factors in operating multiple sites in multiple states across multiple levels.

At GSX, we’ll explore the complexity of securing the medical cannabis industry and the many challenges faced by Security. The permit application process and security plan are unique to each state’s rules and regulations. Explore how to meet some of the more difficult requirements for compliance and learn about some examples of noncompliance. Learn also about the commonalities and differences across different locations.

We will discuss case studies from several states. There is no cookie-cutter template that will ensure success. The security plan is weighted as 25-30% of the total scoring of permit applications and is much more than cameras, locks, and security personnel. Discover how to integrate ASIS ANSI Security Standards throughout the process as we discuss the core elements of a security plan in the medical cannabis industry used today in operations across multiple states.

Join me on Tuesday 25 September for Securing the Medical Cannabis Industry from Seed to Sale.


Tim Sutton has nearly 30 years experience in loss prevention, safety, and security with more than 20 of those years in management. He has worked in both operations and administrative capacities for some of the largest and most prestigious regional and international companies. His experience in retail, manufacturing, chemical, public and government housing, schools, and hospitals and their specific safety and security needs has helped build his unique perspective and skill set. As Director of Security for GHG Management, Tim is responsible for any and all security concerns including the designing of electronic security systems and all physical security programs within the company’s 12 Medical Cannabis Dispensaries, and Medical Cannabis Cultivation and Processing Centers in IL, MD, and PA.