Police seize $8.5 million secret magic mushroom factory in suburban home

Police seize $8.5 million secret magic mushroom factory in suburban home

A suburban Connecticut home was raided by police after an anonymous tip led them to a multimillion-dollar “magic mushroom factory” operated by Westen Soule. When officers arrived at Soule’s home in Burlington, Connecticut, they noticed ventilation equipment throughout the house that was consistent with equipment used in clandestine labs. Soule led the officers to a detached garage where they discovered a large mushroom-growing operation. However, Soule initially denied the illegal nature of the mushrooms but later admitted that they were psilocybin, commonly known as “magic mushrooms.” Law enforcement obtained search warrants after Soule blocked detectives from entering his home, resulting in the seizure of approximately $8.5 million worth of psychedelic mushrooms at various stages of growth. The seized drugs were displayed in several photos released by the Connecticut State Police, showcasing Soule’s expansive operation. Soule was arrested and charged with possession with intent to sell/distribute narcotics and operation of a drug factory. He is currently held on a $250,000 bond and is scheduled to be arraigned in New Britain Superior Court on November 16. The investigation was carried out by the DEA Hartford Task Force and the Connecticut State Police.