A multi-agency investigation dismantled an illegal cannabis operation in the South Bronx, confiscating an estimated one ton of marijuana products valued at about $5 million and arresting 11 people. The shop known as "Budzotic" had been previously busted in July and later resumed operations nearby. The crackdown on illegal cannabis shops pushed operators from storefronts into residential setups, prompting sophisticated security and exclusivity measures. Agencies involved included the NYC Sheriff's Department, NYPD, Bronx Narcotics, and the Bronx District Attorney's office. Seized items included $20,000 in cash, a .22 caliber revolver, crystal meth, and illegal tobacco products. Buyers were vetted with ID photos, email addresses, and barcode access.
A multi-agency investigation took down a massive illegal cannabis operation in the South Bronx Thursday, confiscating an estimated one ton of illicit marijuana products worth about $5 million and arresting 11 people, according to officials. But the Aug. 21 bust represented a frustrating reality for law enforcement- the underground weed shop known as "Budzotic" had already been busted in July of last year, but eventually ramped up operations again just steps from the primary location of last year's bust.
The security at the secret pot shop was tight. The Bronx Times saw security feeds with at least 14 different cameras, as well as razor wire and spikes atop the side entrance to the illegal bud bar. Law enforcement officers told the Bronx Times that the setup for the illegal shop was sophisticated and out of the ordinary for an illicit seller.
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