Law allowing NYC to padlock hundreds of suspected illegal pot shops ruled 'unconstitutional' by judge in bombshell ruling

Judge Kevin J. Kerrigan ruled that the law empowering the City Sheriff's Office to padlock suspected illegal cannabis shops violates due process rights, undermining American democracy.

The ruling states, 'Summarily shuttering a business for one year despite exoneration from illegal activity stands against the cornerstone of American democracy and procedural due process.'

Lance Lazzaro, representing a shop impacted by the law, asserted that the decision validates claims of due process violations since the statute's inception and could pave the way for lawsuits.

The Adams administration indicated they are reviewing the ruling, highlighting that it could have a broader impact on businesses targeted under the Operation Padlock initiative.

Read at New York Post