Massive $17M Marijuana Seizure in New York State

A months-long investigation into what authorities describe as a large-scale illegal cannabis trafficking operation resulted in one of the biggest marijuana seizures New York has seen in recent years.

The Greece Police Department, working alongside the DEA, the New York State Office of Cannabis Management, and New York State Police, announced that investigators seized more than $17 million worth of illegal cannabis products following search warrants executed at two homes and two warehouse locations.

Photo: Greece New York Police Dept
Photo: Greece New York Police Dept
Photo: Greece New York Police Dept

Supplied Smokeshops Across New York State

According to police, the investigation began in April and centered around the illegal sale and distribution of cannabis by Jason Grant and Joseph Grant.

Detectives say the pair used warehouse locations to store bulk cannabis and concentrated cannabis products that were then distributed to smoke shops throughout New York State.

The numbers are eye-popping. Investigators say they seized:

  • More than 615 pounds of cannabis
  • Approximately 20,000 pounds of concentrated cannabis products
  • An illegally manufactured "ghost gun"
  • More than $219,000 in cash
  • Six vehicles
  • Multiple pieces of high-end jewelry
  • Additional evidence related to the alleged operation
Photo: Greece New York Police Dept
Photo: Greece New York Police Dept
Photo: Greece New York Police Dept

Based on estimated retail values provided by the New York State Office of Cannabis Management, authorities say the cannabis products alone are worth more than $17 million.

Two Men Were Arrested

According to the Greece Police, Joseph Grant was charged with four felony counts of first-degree criminal possession of cannabis, along with a felony weapons charge after investigators say they recovered an illegally manufactured "ghost gun" during the searches.

Jason Grant was charged with four felony counts of first-degree criminal possession of cannabis

 

Photo: Greece New York Police Facebook
Photo: Greece New York Police Facebook
Photo: Greece New York Police Facebook
Photo: Greece New York Police Facebook
Photo: Greece New York Police Facebook
Photo: Greece New York Police Facebook

Both men were processed and transported to the Monroe County Jail for arraignment. According to police, Joseph Grant posted bail and was released, while Jason Grant was released under the supervision of Pretrial Services.

As with all criminal cases, the charges are allegations, and both men are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

Have information that could add to this story or require a correction? Email me anytime at brian@wgna.com.

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