Queens DA shuts down illegal dispensary : Illegal Weed Bust in NYC: School Bus Sale Gone Wrong

Accident – Death – Obituary News : : 1. Illegal weed bust NYC
2. School bus drug bust NY

Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz has shut down an illegal cannabis dispensary operating from a converted school bus in Sunnyside. The owner, 62-year-old Anthony Stevens of Brooklyn, faces charges for unlawful sale and possession of cannabis. The dispensary, named “The Green Empress,” targeted children with cannabis-infused products resembling popular snacks like “Skittles” and “Jolly Ranchers.” The raid, executed on June 12, recovered various cannabis products. Stevens is scheduled for a court appearance on July 2. This crackdown highlights efforts to regulate cannabis sales in New York, which currently hosts 133 licensed recreational dispensaries, including 14 in Queens, alongside 42 medical dispensaries, with three in Queens.

Illegal Cannabis Dispensary in Sunnyside Shut Down by Queens District Attorney

In a recent development, Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz has successfully shut down an illegal cannabis dispensary operating out of a converted school bus in the vibrant neighborhood of Sunnyside. The owner of the vehicle, 62-year-old Anthony Stevens from Brooklyn, now faces charges related to the unlawful sale and possession of cannabis.

The illicit dispensary, known as “The Green Empress,” was reportedly targeting children with its product offerings. The items sold included cannabis-infused products cleverly named and packaged to resemble popular children’s snacks like “Skittles,” “Gummy Sharks,” and “Jolly Ranchers.” This marketing tactic not only raised eyebrows but also led to the exposure of the operation and subsequent police raid.

Concerns Raised by District Attorney Katz

District Attorney Katz has highlighted the dangers associated with unregulated cannabis operations, especially those that target young people. These operations often circumvent safety measures, regulations, and taxes, thereby undercutting legitimate businesses. Katz has reiterated her commitment to addressing community complaints regarding such dispensaries.

The enforcement action took place on June 12, when detectives, in collaboration with NYPD officers, executed a search warrant on the school bus located at the corner of 43rd Street and Queens Boulevard. During the raid, various cannabis products were seized, including a chocolate bar, concentrated cannabis straws, and multiple items resembling popular candy brands.

Legal Proceedings and Regulatory Efforts

Following the raid, Anthony Stevens was given a desk appearance ticket and is scheduled to appear in court on July 2. This crackdown on illicit cannabis operations aligns with ongoing efforts to regulate and control the sale of cannabis, ensuring compliance with state laws. Presently, New York state boasts 133 licensed recreational-use dispensaries, with 14 located in Queens, alongside 42 medical dispensaries, including three in Queens.

As authorities continue to crack down on illegal cannabis operations, communities can expect increased vigilance and enforcement to protect the well-being of residents and uphold the integrity of legal cannabis businesses.