Illegal Cannabis Shop In Forest Hills Shut Down

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Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz announced the closure of an unlicensed cannabis shop operating at 103-17 Queens Boulevard in Forest Hills, located near a public park and a junior high school. A search of the premises uncovered 31.8 pounds of marijuana, hundreds of cannabis products, and other items valued at approximately $38,200.

District Attorney Katz stated: “Our communities, especially our children, must be protected from the dangers posed by unlicensed and unregulated marijuana products. These illegal dispensaries not only evade taxes but also threaten the livelihood of licensed sellers who follow safety and compliance regulations. My office remains committed to ensuring public safety and compliance throughout Queens.”

The investigation revealed that the shop, operating as The Smoke House, conducted illegal sales nightly through a roll-down gate. Customers entered to purchase marijuana flower, cannabis gummies, flavored vapes, THC vapes, pre-rolls, and edibles, which were prominently displayed inside. Law enforcement officials also recovered $4,713 in cash and brass knuckles during the January 10 search.

This operation is part of an ongoing initiative to eliminate illegal cannabis dispensaries in Queens. Since November 2022, enforcement actions have led to the prosecution of 313 individuals for felony-related offenses involving cannabis or controlled substances. In addition, 272 shops across Queens County have been padlocked since July 2024 in coordination with the NYPD and the New York City Sheriff’s Office.

To date, more than 400 suspected illegal dispensaries have been targeted, with over $25 million worth of illicit products seized, including: 10,000+ pounds of cannabis flower, 6,500+ pounds of cannabis edibles, 17,000+ cannabis vape pens, and hundreds of packages of edible psilocybin.

DA Katz has also initiated eviction proceedings against illegal smoke shops under Real Property Actions and Proceedings Law, ensuring compliance and safety across the borough.