Mayor Adams cracks down on unlicensed NYC stores selling cannabis

Illegal cannabis shops have been flourishing in New York City since marijuana was legalized for adult use in March 2021. But with the first licensed recreational dispensaries set to open by the end of this year, Mayor Eric Adams is cracking down on illegal sales.

At a press conference on Thursday afternoon, Adams announced the creation of a joint task force to weed out illegal dispensaries. It is a partnership between the New York City sheriff’s office, the NYPD, the city’s Department of Consumer and Worker Protections and the New York State Office of Cannabis Management.

The task force is targeting unlicensed sales of tobacco and vapes in addition to unregulated THC products. And it’s already getting to work. The agencies inspected 53 storefronts across the city and seized more than 100,000 illegal products worth about $4 million over the course of two recent weeks, Adams said.

“To those who believe this is going to become the Wild, Wild West of cannabis sales, we are saying clearly and loudly, ‘No, it is not,’” Adams said.

The task force issued 500 civil violations and 66 criminal summonses, according to Sheriff Anthony Miranda. Those violating the law could also face fines, added Chris Alexander, executive director of the state Office of Cannabis Management.

“Our goal is not to incarcerate,” Adams said. “It is to confiscate and educate.” [Read More @ The Gothamist]