UPDATE: State closes several Watertown smoke shops over illegal marijuana

WATERTOWN, New York (WWNY) – At least four Watertown smoke shops closed Wednesday after the state said it seized illegal marijuana at the businesses.

The New York State Office of Cannabis Management shut down:

• NYC Smoke Shop on Factory Street
• The Town Smoke Shop on State Street
• Cali Smoke Shop in the plaza off State Street
• 315 Smoke on the corner of Arsenal and Massey Streets

The locks on the stores were changed.

The state posted signs in all of the shops’ window saying, “Warning: this business is sealed by order of the Cannabis Control Board.” In bold red letters, it reads,” ILLICIT CANNABIS SEIZED.”

7 News has reached out to OCM for information. We did not hear back.

There was a steady stream of would-be customers arriving at NYC Smoke Shop Wednesday afternoon. Some said they wanted to buy cigarettes or vapes, but with the place shut down, all left empty-handed.

“Supposedly they have regular weed and they come in mylar bags, but I don’t know what it is,” said Paul Amelang.

“I usually stop in here for my vapes and cigarettes. Cheaper than at a store or the gas station. Been coming here ever since they were open. The one guy that works here is always very nice, very friendly,” said Stacey Scott.

The raids come on the same day that Governor Kathy Hochul announced that more than 1,000 illegal cannabis retailers have been shut down across New York.

Cannabis has been legal in New York state since 2021. However, retailers must be licensed by the state to sell it.

Copyright 2024 WWNY. All rights reserved.