Secret chute found inside Bed-Stuy smoke shop during $1.7M cannabis bust
The sheriff released photos showing brightly packaged THC edibles, vapes, concentrates, and cannabis flower. In total, investigators say they recovered about 1,096 pounds of illegal products.
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A Bed-Stuy smoke shop was using a secret chute to move illegal cannabis between the store and an upstairs apartment, according to the NYC Sheriff’s Office.
The hidden setup was uncovered during a multi-agency raid on Nov. 13, when the Sheriff’s Joint Compliance Task Force, Homeland Security Investigations–NY, and the NYPD executed search warrants at both locations.
Citizen video shows the sidewalk taped off, K-9 units on scene, and officers carrying out bags of seized products.
The sheriff released photos showing brightly packaged THC edibles, vapes, concentrates, and cannabis flower. In total, investigators say they recovered about 1,096 pounds of illegal products — worth roughly $1.7 million — along with $20,320 in cash.
Three people were arrested and charged with criminal trespass, criminal possession of cannabis, and criminal possession of a controlled substance.
FDNY Fire Prevention and the Department of Buildings also issued fire code violations, building violations, and a partial vacate order.
Some neighbors said the bust didn’t surprise them.
"It’s interesting to hear, but it’s expensive and something people out here fiend for, so I’m not surprised,” said Felix, who lives nearby.
The raid is part of Operation Padlock to Protect, which has sealed more than 1,600 illegal smoke shops citywide.
