A months-long investigation into illegal cannabis sales to minors has led to the arrest of two men and the closure of four smoke shops in Seneca Falls.
Police say 20-year-old Mohamed Fahd Alsaidi of Queens was charged with two felony counts of third-degree criminal possession of a weapon for having a handgun and a high-capacity feeding device. Thirty-one-year-old Muneer Abdillah of the Bronx was charged with fourth-degree criminal possession of a weapon for having a dagger.
The charges followed coordinated raids on four businesses: Hemp Vibes at 963 Route 5 & 20, Dream Falls Convenience at 82 Fall Street, Smokers N. Munch at 25 Bridge Street, and Rick’s VIP at 2109 Route 5 & 20. All four were ordered closed after the enforcement operation.
The investigation, led by the Seneca Falls Police Department with assistance from the New York State Office of Cannabis Management, the Seneca County Sheriff’s Office, and the Waterloo Police Department, began after a community complaint about sales to juveniles.
Authorities say more charges are expected as the case continues.
All photos courtesy of NYS Office of Cannabis Management
“These coordinated operations send a clear message that unlicensed and illegal cannabis sales will not be tolerated in our community,” said Chief of Police Timothy A. Snyder, Seneca Falls Police Department. “We are committed to working with our law enforcement partners and the Office of Cannabis Management to ensure businesses operate within the law and that our residents and our children are protected from the dangers associated with unregulated products.”
“Through a coordinated effort, OCM assisted the Seneca Falls Police Department in executing a search alongside the Waterloo Village Police Department and the Seneca County Sheriff’s Office. Product seizures and shutting down illicit cannabis stores demonstrates our commitment to enforcing the law and keeping untested, illegal cannabis off the shelves,” said Daniel Haughney, Director of Enforcement and Investigations for the New York State Office of Cannabis Management. “By continuing to collaborate with law enforcement in Seneca Falls and across New York, we’re ensuring that no illegal cannabis shops will be allowed to operate as we work to shut down the illicit market.”
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation, and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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