New York City’s Public Safety Office and the New York City Police Department conducted a surprise raid on an illegal marijuana shop in Mott Haven, Bronx early Sunday morning (21st) following multiple complaints from residents. The operation resulted in the discovery of illicit marijuana and psychedelic mushrooms worth an estimated over $10 million, posing serious health risks to the community, especially young people.
With the state government in New York granting enforcement powers to shut down illegal marijuana shops, Mayor Adams introduced the “Operation Padlock to Protect” plan in May to expedite the closure of these illegal establishments. This initiative allows law enforcement agencies to inspect and directly shut down tobacco and marijuana shops selling products without licenses. The inspection on Sunday took place at 516 Timpson Place in Mott Haven.
City Public Safety Officer Miranda stated that the seized illegal products included 1,200 pounds of marijuana flowers, 200 pounds of psychedelic mushrooms, and 33 pounds of THC concentrates, many of which were packaged as chocolates or candies, indicating their targeting towards young people and lacking testing and regulation, posing a significant health threat.
“These are all harmful substances, packaged specifically for our children… This is aimed at the young population using these products,” Officer Miranda told 1010 WINS.
The space of the illegal marijuana shop raided early Sunday morning almost occupied half a block, with a storefront large enough to host parties and an additional storage area behind the shop.
Deputy Chief of the New York City Police Department Daughtry mentioned that a shotgun was found in the storage area, but no arrests have been made yet, and the investigation is ongoing.
Mayor Adams stated on Sunday morning that the police will continue conducting raids on illegal marijuana shops hidden throughout the city and communities. “It’s hidden in every corner of our city and community. We will find it, we will destroy it, and we will arrest those involved,” he said.
The Mayor expressed gratitude to the community for reporting to the police, emphasizing that this raid was a result of collaboration between law enforcement and the community.