New York City Mayor Eric Adams is on high alert, threatening a crackdown on the proliferation of illegal cannabis stores that have sprung up like weeds across the city and now threaten the profitability of state-licensed operators who have yet to operate.
During a press conference at City Hall on Thursday, Adams stated that the legal marijuana business is “under threat” from the thriving black market and “counterfeit” sales throughout the five boroughs.
Adams stated that unlicensed cannabis outlets pose a threat to an emerging economic opportunity for the community.
“Those who cross the border cannot harm the lawful market. Our goal is to get it correctly.”
The mayor, a veteran police captain, was outraged when he saw the packaging for cannabis goods offered by illegal vendors that appeal to children, such “Captain Crunch” and “Trix.”
The cannabis task force of the New York City Sheriff’s Office recently performed inspections at 53 suspected unlicensed cannabis businesses and issued 500 civil violations and 66 criminal court summonses.
At the same press conference, Sheriff Anthony Miranda stated that more over a million dollars’ worth of contraband was seized.
“There are many who believe that cannabis sales will soon resemble the Wild West.” We are stating plainly and loudly that this is not the case. Adams stated that actions would be taken to prevent unlicensed places and establishments from selling illegal cannabis…