BUFFALO, N.Y. — New York State’s Office of Cannabis Management’s footprint is evident around Western New York, including along Delaware Avenue in Kenmore. 

“A couple of them,” Kenmore resident Christopher Gautheir said. “That one over there that I normally go to and then another one, I believe it’s called Wicked Glass.” 

Cannabis shops, shuttered or momentarily halted by the state. The words, “Illicit cannabis seized” on their doors.

And with new numbers released by the OCM, we’re getting a closer look at just how many illicit cannabis shops were raided this past year.

In 2024 alone, they’ve conducted over 1,000 inspections, resulting in the seizure of over $68 million worth of illicit cannabis products across New York State.

“When we go in and we’re looking for products that are prohibited by our rules and regulations, products that are illegal on their face where no one can, can sell them,” said Daniel Haughney, OCM Director of Enforcement and Investigations.

As we begin the new year, The state has plans to not only expand, but streamline operations.

“We’re going to continue to get to our full staffing within the enforcement division,” Haughney said.