Two Rochester smoke shops have been shut down following a long-term investigation into unlicensed cannabis sales, according to the New York State Office of Cannabis Management.
The agency’s Enforcement and Investigations Division partnered with the Rochester Police Department’s Rochester Area Narcotics Enforcement Team (GRANET) to target suspected illegal operations in the Greater Rochester area.
On April 16, investigators executed search warrants and conducted enforcement inspections at Unique Smoke Shop on Lyell Avenue and Mr. Starlight Smoke Shop on Chestnut Ridge Road, along with a storage facility connected to both businesses.
Authorities say the operator of both shops was issued Notices of Violation and Orders to Seal. Both storefronts were padlocked as a result of the enforcement action.
State officials reported seizing a large quantity of cannabis products, including more than 147 pounds of cannabis flower, over 5,200 vape devices, more than 5,000 edible packages, and nearly 2,000 pre-rolls. The total estimated street value of the seized items is approximately $1.3 million.
“New York has built a legal cannabis market grounded in public safety, accountability, and fairness. We will not allow illegal shops to undermine that progress,” said John Kagia, acting executive director of the Office of Cannabis Management. “Disrupting illicit operations protects consumers, strengthens communities, and ensures that licensed businesses playing by the rules can compete on a level field.”
Daniel Haughney, director of enforcement and investigations for the agency, said the state will continue to target unlicensed cannabis sellers.
“Unlicensed cannabis operations pose risks to public health and undermine the legal market,” Haughney said. “Our investigators will continue to disrupt and dismantle illicit operations like this to protect New Yorkers.”
The investigation was conducted jointly by state regulators and Rochester police, and officials say additional enforcement actions may follow.
