In a coordinated law enforcement effort, a Newburgh man has been arrested following the discovery of unlicensed cannabis sales and other violations at smoke shops in Albion and a residence in Cheektowaga, New York. The operation led by the Orleans County Major Felony Crime Task Force also involved the Albion Police Department, Orleans County Sheriff’s Department, New York State Office of Cannabis Management (OCM), and the Department of Taxation and Finance.
On Tuesday, search warrants were executed at three locations: Albion Mini-Mart at 45 North Main St., D-R Smoke Shop at 139 South Main St. in Albion, and a residence at 26 Abeles St. in Cheektowaga. While no illicit products were found at D-R Smoke Shop, authorities uncovered significant evidence of illegal activity at the Albion Mini-Mart and the residence.
During the search, officers seized over five pounds of cannabis flower, a pound of cannabis-infused edibles, 30 THC vape cartridges, concentrated cannabis, several cartons of cigarettes with counterfeit New York State tax stamps, and more than $5,000 in cash. These products were reportedly being sold without the appropriate licenses, raising serious public health concerns.
The individual at the center of the investigation, 38-year-old Badr A. Nagi of Newburgh, has been charged with criminal possession of cannabis in the third degree (a class A misdemeanor) and in the second degree (a class E felony). Nagi was operating the Albion Mini-Mart at the time of the investigation.
As a result of these findings, the NYS Office of Cannabis Management immediately shut down the Albion Mini-Mart for selling and possessing unregulated cannabis products. The Department of Taxation and Finance also suspended the store's tobacco license due to the counterfeit tax stamps found on the cigarette cartons.
The sale of unlicensed cannabis not only undermines legal businesses operating under strict regulations but also poses a significant risk to consumer safety. Products sold outside of the state-regulated system are not tested for safety, potency, or quality, leaving consumers vulnerable to potential harm.
This case highlights the increasing scrutiny and enforcement against unauthorized cannabis sales in New York, especially as the legal market continues to develop. Joe Sacco, supervising investigator for the Major Felony Crime Task Force, confirmed that the investigation is ongoing and additional arrests and charges are expected.
The case underscores the importance of compliance with state cannabis laws and regulations. Businesses and consumers alike are urged to engage only with licensed dispensaries to ensure safety and support the state’s legal cannabis industry.
