HORNELL, N.Y. (WENY) – A significant drug bust took place in Hornell on Thursday afternoon when authorities raided a business on Canisteo Square, uncovering a substantial quantity of illegal substances. According to the Hornell Police Department, the search led to the seizure of over 20 pounds of marijuana, cannabis edibles, and psychedelic drugs.
The operation was the result of a court-authorized search warrant issued by Hornell City Court Judge Dave Coddington. The search targeted a business located at 9 Canisteo Square, and police executed the warrant with assistance from the New York State Police.
The individual operating the store, 47-year-old Nicholas J. Morris, was arrested at the scene. He now faces serious legal consequences, having been charged with two Class D felony offenses: criminal possession of marijuana in the first degree and criminal possession of a controlled substance in the fifth degree.
In addition to the arrest, authorities red-tagged the building due to the criminal nature of the activity discovered during the search. This designation indicates that the property is considered unfit for use, at least temporarily, pending further investigation and review.
Morris was arraigned in Steuben County’s Centralized Arraignment Part (CAP) Court and subsequently released, pending further proceedings. While the release might raise eyebrows given the severity of the charges, it is consistent with New York State’s bail reform policies, which often allow for release under supervision in non-violent felony cases.
The involvement of state authorities highlights the seriousness of the investigation. With the legalization of marijuana in New York, the state has also ramped up enforcement against unlicensed or improperly operating cannabis businesses. This case is a clear example of how law enforcement is working to ensure compliance with new cannabis regulations while cracking down on illicit operations.
The Hornell Police Department has not released further details on the types of psychedelics recovered or whether additional charges could be pending. The investigation is ongoing, and more information may be available in the coming weeks as authorities continue to assess the scope of the illegal activity.
For now, the incident stands as a reminder that, despite relaxed cannabis laws in New York, strict regulations remain in place — and violating them can carry serious consequences.
