NEW YORK — Like the crackdown on illegal cannabis stores in New York City According to researchers, they found a store in Brooklyn that made its own colorful, misleading cartoon packaging.
The New York City Sheriff’s Office seized at least 50 pounds of marijuana Tuesday from behind a darkened storefront in Sheepshead Bay.
CBS New York’s Ali Bauman was there as the sheriff searched the illegal store for more than $1 million worth of marijuana in various forms.
First printing press found in illegal cannabis shop
CBS New York
According to investigators, the products had already been packaged for distribution, using a printing press found in the store.
“Some of the labels say it’s from California, which it’s not, and it’s also in child-friendly packaging, which is a danger to our community right now,” said New York City Sheriff Anthony Miranda.
CBS New York
According to Miranda, the printer is a clear indication that the location is distributing unregistered and untaxed marijuana to illegal shops in the city.
“This is the first printing press we have recovered and it will be part of the ongoing investigation,” he said.
Unknown Chemicals Added to Cannabis
CBS New York
Researchers also found chemicals used to flavor marijuana.
“On the illegal market, chemicals are added to the flower product. People are no longer smoking cannabis, but the chemicals that are in it,” Miranda said.
He said there was “clear mislabeling” and the sheriff’s office was tipped off about the location after complaints from neighbors.
“Everything that we address in our inspections, and the reason we’re here to do this, is because this store has been identified as such, this location needs to be closed,” he said. “We hear your complaints, we respond to your complaints. And please make sure you keep us informed.”
The seized products were stored as evidence. The store is being fined and at least two employees are being charged with counterfeiting.
