State cannabis regulators shut down an illegal dispensary steps away from a childcare center in Brooklyn last month, seizing more than $1.4 million worth of unlicensed products in one of the largest recent enforcement actions in the borough.
The New York State Office of Cannabis Management on Jan. 30 executed a court-authorized seizure at 645 Rogers Ave. after receiving complaints from neighborhood residents about suspected illegal cannabis sales. Investigators confirmed the operation was unlicensed and recovered more than 220 pounds of cannabis flower stored in vacuum-sealed bags, along with edibles, concentrates and pre-rolls.
The storefront, located next to a childcare center, was issued a Notice of Violation and ordered closed. Authorities padlocked the business following the seizure.
“Illegal cannabis shops, especially those that operate where children gather will not be tolerated,” said Governor Kathy Hochul.” New York State has rules in place that protect the health and safety of New Yorkers and we will continue to take decisive action to shut down illegal operations that put our communities at risk and undermine New York’s legal industry and the hundreds of small businesses that are following the law.”
State officials said the proximity to a preschool raised additional concerns, noting that licensed dispensaries in New York must comply with strict rules, including mandatory age verification for customers and limits on visible product displays to reduce exposure to minors.
So far in 2026, OCM has closed 22 illegal cannabis shops statewide, adding to 557 unlicensed storefronts shuttered since enforcement ramped up. Regulators say removing illicit operators is key to protecting consumers and supporting licensed dispensaries that comply with state law.
“These enforcement actions send a clear message that illegal cannabis operations anywhere in New York will be investigated and dealt with,” said Daniel Haughney, Director of Enforcement and Investigations at OCM.
