Unlicensed cannabis shop in Queens shut down, $38K marijuana seized
QUEENS, N.Y. (PIX11) -- An unlicensed cannabis shop blocks away from Yellowstone Park and Russell Sage Junior High School in Forest Hills was shuttered Friday.
Approximately $38,200 worth of marijuana was seized during a search, Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz announced.
Surveillance showed illegal sales of cannabis through a roll-down gate at The Smoke House at 103-17 Queens Boulevard. Customers reportedly were also allowed into the store at around 8 p.m. daily to buy illicit products, officials say.
In addition to cannabis, law enforcement seized $4,713 in cash and brass knuckles.
To date, over $25 million worth of cannabis edibles, cannabis flowers, edible psilocybin, and cannabis vape "pens" have been seized from illegal cannabis dispensaries in Queens.
Since November 2022, 313 individuals have faced prosecution for felony-related charges related to the sale or possession of cannabis and controlled substances in Queens. Additionally, 272 shops have been padlocked since July 2024.
“Our communities, particularly our children, must remain safe from the dangers posed by unlicensed, unregulated marijuana products in our neighborhoods," said DA Katz. "These illicit dispensaries not only evade tax obligations but also jeopardize the livelihood of licensed sellers who adhere to safety and compliance standards."
Ben Mitchell is a digital content producer from Vermont who has covered both local and international news since 2021. He joined PIX11 in 2024. See more of his work here.