The Big Weed Bust: How Authorities Shut Down a Major Illegal Cannabis Operation

In a significant move against illegal cannabis operations, authorities recently busted a large-scale trafficking business in Brooklyn. The operation, known as P. U. for its strong-smelling pot, was supplying several illegal smoke shops across the city. The warehouse, located at 209 Highland Place in East New York, was the main hub of this illicit business.

Key Details of the Bust

• Seizure: Approximately 500 pounds of illegal cannabis products.
• Shut Down: Two smoke shops, one in East Harlem and another in Brownsville, Brooklyn.
• Supply Chain: Both shops were directly supplied by the warehouse.

Operation Padlock: A Citywide Effort

This crackdown is part of Operation Padlock, a joint effort by the NYPD and the city's Sheriff's Department to target unlicensed marijuana shops. Launched by Mayor Adams in May 2024, the operation has already:

• Shut down over 1,500 illegal stores.
• Seized more than $100 million in merchandise.
• Issued fines totaling over $200 million.

Dangers of Illegal Operations

Authorities emphasized the dangers of these illegal operations:

• Unregulated Products: Selling untested and unregulated products that can harm consumers.
• Targeting Children: Some products are flavored vapes and packaging that resembles candy or cereal.
• Attracting Violence: These shops often attract violence due to the large amounts of cash involved.

Warehouse Conditions

The warehouse itself was found to have:

• Illegal Partitions: Dividing the space into different areas for various business activities.
• Evacuation Ordered: The Department of Buildings ordered the complete evacuation of the premises.

Ongoing Efforts

This bust highlights the ongoing efforts to combat the illegal cannabis market. It's not just about shutting down the shops but also about cutting off the supply chain to make a lasting impact.