NYPD and sheriff confiscate 500 pounds of illicit marijuana and shut down illegal weed warehouse.

Authorities have dismantled an extensive cannabis-trafficking operation operating from a warehouse in Brooklyn, which had been supplying illegal smoke shops throughout New York City. The operation, identified by the name P.U., which stands for its notably pungent marijuana products, has led to two arrests as part of the ongoing investigation. This warehouse, located at 209 Highland Place in East New York, was deemed the central hub of the illicit enterprise.

During the operation, law enforcement officials seized approximately 500 pounds of illegal cannabis products. In addition to the warehouse closure, two smoke shops — one located at 2347 Second Avenue in East Harlem and the other at 1585 Pitkin Avenue in Brownsville — were also shut down as a direct result of the investigation.

This raid forms part of Operation Padlock, a coordinated effort launched by Mayor Adams in May 2024, aimed at eradicating unlicensed marijuana dispensaries across the city. Since its inception, the task force has successfully closed more than 1,500 illegal establishments, confiscating over 0 million worth of unregulated merchandise and issuing fines amounting to more than 0 million.

Deputy Mayor for Public Safety Kaz Daughtry emphasized that the initiative is not solely focused on closing the smoke shops but also targets their suppliers. By eliminating the sources that provide these operations with cannabis, city officials aim to disrupt the supply chain that supports the illegal and unregulated market. Daughtry warned of the dangers associated with untested and unregulated cannabis products, which pose health risks to consumers. He expressed particular concern regarding the marketing tactics of these operations, which often include flavored vaping products designed to appeal to children.

The warehouse itself was reportedly divided into multiple rooms through illegal partitions, with distinct areas allocated for various stages of the cannabis business, including packaging and distribution. The Department of Buildings has ordered the complete vacating of the facility.

New York City Sheriff Anthony Miranda described the operation as an elaborate system that effectively handled everything from shipments to distribution within the warehouse. The recent crackdown sends a clear message from city officials regarding their commitment to eradicating illegal cannabis operations, enhancing public safety, and protecting consumers from potentially dangerous products.