It’s explained in the article, no? They bought indoor growing equipment. That’s been a red flag for decades. Google “Operation Green Merchant”.
I have 3 hydroponic growing machines. Up until this past winter, they sat out in the open in my home growing cherry tomatoes, mini sweet red peppers, bok choy or lettuce. I just got a bit tired of it this past winter and while the machines are out, they are not in production. I bought all 3 (plus a spare still in its box), lights, fertilizer, etc w/a credit card between 2008-2010. I even bought some fertilizers from a site that apparently caters to pot growers as well as vegetable growers.
I have had countless people in my home, all of whom saw and commented on my hobby. They included a former police chief and fire chief, a current town policeman and a couple of current Sheriff’s Deputies. The policeman’s wife also grows veggies hydroponically.
No one batted an eye. These are innocent, legal items for sale in many places, including Ace Hardware. Hydroponics is a popular hobby. Everything in the world is available for purchase via credit or debit card. Ironically, paying cash, these days, is supposedly a Fusion Center red flag.
FWIW, there is no reason to be constantly on the defensive about everything that *someone* could misconstrue. I’ll not live my life as though I am a criminal just because some over-zealous nit wit decides that perfectly legal behavior is suspect.
Glad these people sued. I would, as well.