NEW YORK, NY—Mayor Eric Adams today announced the initiation of “Operation Padlock to Protect,” a city-wide crackdown on unlicensed smoke and cannabis shops across New York City’s five boroughs. This enforcement initiative comes after recent state legislation and city regulations have empowered local authorities to shut down these illegal operations.
The operation kicked off this morning with the involvement of the New York City Sheriff’s Office, NYPD, and the Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP). These agencies now have the authority to inspect and immediately padlock any establishments found to be selling cannabis unlawfully.
“Today, our administration is delivering on a promise to shut down unlicensed smoke and cannabis shops, protect our young people, and ensure that the future of legal cannabis burns bright in New York City,” Mayor Adams stated. He expressed gratitude towards Governor Kathy Hochul and state legislators for providing the city with the necessary legal tools to enforce these regulations.
Chief Advisor to the Mayor, Ingrid P. Lewis-Martin, emphasized the negative impact of these unlicensed shops on community quality of life and the legal cannabis market. “The proliferation of unlicensed smoke and cannabis shops in New York City is one of the biggest quality of life issues facing New Yorkers,” said Lewis-Martin.
First Deputy Mayor Sheena Wright also highlighted the operation’s role in safeguarding the community and supporting the growth of a legal cannabis market. “By establishing formal rules allowing local law enforcement to padlock these establishments, we are sending a strong message that illegal operators will be held accountable,” Wright noted.
This aggressive move aims to improve public safety, protect the city’s youth, and establish a sustainable and legal cannabis industry in New York City.