Anthony Stevens : “NYC School Bus Weed Bust: Illegal Marijuana Sale”

QUEENS, NY — Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz has announced the shutdown of an illicit cannabis dispensary operating out of a converted school bus in Sunnyside. The owner of the vehicle, identified as 62-year-old Anthony Stevens of Brooklyn, faces charges including unlawful sale and possession of cannabis.

The dispensary, known as “The Green Empress,” was reportedly targeting children with its product offerings, which included cannabis-infused items named and packaged similarly to popular children’s snacks such as “Skittles,” “Gummy Sharks,” and “Jolly Ranchers.” This deceptive marketing strategy ultimately led to the exposure and subsequent raid of the operation.

District Attorney Katz highlighted the dangers posed by unregulated cannabis operations, especially those that target young people and circumvent safety, regulation, and taxes, thereby undermining legitimate businesses. She reiterated her commitment to addressing community concerns regarding such illicit dispensaries.

The enforcement action took place on June 12, with detectives and NYPD officers executing a search warrant on the bus located at the corner of 43rd Street and Queens Boulevard. Various cannabis products, including a chocolate bar, concentrated cannabis straws, and multiple items resembling popular candy brands, were recovered during the raid.

Stevens, who was issued a desk appearance ticket, is scheduled to appear in court on July 2. This crackdown reflects ongoing efforts to regulate and control the sale of cannabis, ensuring compliance with state laws. New York currently boasts 133 licensed recreational-use dispensaries, with 14 located in Queens, in addition to 42 medical dispensaries, including three in Queens.