NYC Sheriff's Task Force closes nearly 500 illegal cannabis shops

NEW YORK (PIX11) -- Since the launch of Operation Padlock to Protect, the New York City Sherriff’s Joint Compliance Task Force teams have shut down almost 500 illegal cannabis shops across New York City.

Nearly 1,000 locations were inspected and over $40 million in penalties have been issued, according to the Office of New York City Mayor Eric Adams.

The law enforcement task force plans to investigate nearly 2,900 reports of potential illegal smoke shops throughout New York City’s five boroughs.

“There are a little less than 2,900 locations that have been identified for investigation,” New York City Sheriff Anthony Miranda said. “We get that information from community complaints. We also get that information from the police department, elected officials, and anyone else who makes the observation.”

Law enforcement will also conduct follow-up inspections to make sure unlicensed weed shops that were ordered to be sealed actually remain closed. The NYPD has the authority to arrest people violating the sheriff’s closure orders.

Sealing orders are also issued, which makes it easier for a landlord to evict a tenant who operated an illegal smoke shop. The Sheriff's Office will then work with landlords who are interested in re-leasing their properties and assist them in the process of getting another tenant, according to the Office of New York City Mayor Eric Adams.

Meanwhile, more than two dozen smoke shops and convenience stores accused of selling marijuana without a license have filed a federal class action lawsuit against New York City.

The suit alleges the city has violated their constitutional right to due process.