A significant victory for law enforcement in Queens has culminated in the dismantling of a multi-million dollar interstate cannabis operation, resulting in the confiscation of over $2.5 million worth of illicit marijuana and related products, and the arrest of six individuals.
This extensive criminal enterprise allegedly involved the sophisticated transportation of thousands of pounds of illegal cannabis and other controlled substances from California directly into the heart of Queens, highlighting a major pipeline for illicit drug trafficking across state lines.
During the multi-agency operation, authorities seized an astonishing 2,000 pounds of marijuana, along with hundreds of packages of illicit cannabis products, including THC flower and vape pens, underscoring the sheer scale of the contraband destined for local streets.
Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz emphasized the severe threat posed by such unregulated substances, stating that the sale of these illegal products often leads to significant harm within Queens communities, contrasting sharply with the rigorous approval processes for legitimate businesses.
The investigation, which began in April, utilized intelligence operations to track the flow of these illegal products, revealing a systematic delivery method via tractor-trailer trucks to a SecureSpaces self-storage unit in Maspeth, where defendants regularly received the large shipments.
Key observations on July 30 detailed the meticulous movement of the illegal goods, including instances where defendants like Emerson Ramos Garcia and Jose Carbajal Enamorado were seen transferring boxes, and the arrival of vehicles driven by Anna Migal and Erzhena Mitupova at the storage facility in Long Island City.
Subsequent search warrants executed on implicated vehicles and storage units yielded substantial evidence, including 1,847.70 pounds of THC flower (many pre-packaged), hundreds of pre-rolled cannabis cigarettes, nearly 1,000 pounds of THC vape pens, and vacuum sealing equipment, crucial for distribution.
NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch condemned the alleged cross-country criminal enterprise, asserting that it not only brought a staggering amount of illicit marijuana into New York City but also directly undermined legitimate businesses and endangered residents with unregulated substances.
New York City Sheriff Anthony Miranda lauded the collaborative efforts with the Queens DA’s office and the DEA, reiterating a commitment to public safety and highlighting how these unlicensed operations jeopardize community well-being and the legal framework designed for economic and social benefits. The six arrested individuals, including Eduardo Lopez and Courtney Ferguson, face potential prison sentences of up to seven years if convicted, with court appearances scheduled for September and October.
