In an ongoing attempt to bring order to the expanding cannabis sector and protect the well-being of its residents, Jersey City has launched intensified enforcement against cannabis businesses operating without proper licensing. The city’s focus is to curb the growth of unauthorized sellers and reinforce adherence to both state and municipal laws.
On March 9, 2025, the Jersey City Quality of Life Task Force carried out a coordinated inspection that resulted in four individuals being taken into custody. Officials issued 14 summonses and seized more than 13 pounds of marijuana, along with a large quantity of untaxed tobacco. These actions were prompted by resident complaints about non-compliant establishments—ranging from barber shops to smoke lounges—that were allegedly selling cannabis or related items without required permits.
Mayor Steven Fulop has made the city’s position clear, stating that those who attempt to sidestep the licensing process are endangering public safety and undercutting businesses that operate within legal boundaries. He reiterated the importance of a level playing field for those following the law.
Multiple locations were identified and shut down during the operation. One of the businesses, Chill Town Smoke Shop on West Side Avenue, was found to be distributing marijuana and over 400 untaxed tobacco products. The owner, Danial Wagner, was arrested on various charges, including illegal retail cannabis sales, distributing flavored vapes without authorization, and lacking both food and tobacco licenses.
Another incident occurred at Neighborhood Dollar Store on Martin Luther King Drive. Law enforcement officers recovered about four pounds of cannabis. Business owner Alquan Scott and employee Hassan Holland—who was already wanted for an unrelated matter—were detained. Both face charges related to selling cannabis without a license.
A third location, Maoze Smoke Shop, also on MLK Drive, resulted in the arrest of Abdourahim A. Nahwi. He was cited for numerous violations including the sale of flavored vaping products and loose cigarettes, failing to maintain required records, and possessing thousands of untaxed cigarettes—an offense that constitutes a fourth-degree crime under New Jersey law.
While enforcement is ramping up, Jersey City continues to face internal difficulties managing its legal cannabis framework. The city’s Cannabis Control Board has struggled with delays following a string of resignations, which have stalled meetings and slowed down the application process for legitimate businesses seeking licensing. The uncertainty has frustrated entrepreneurs and advocates alike.
Adding to the complications is the city’s decision not to limit the number of dispensary licenses it issues. Although intended to encourage fair access and transparency, the policy has led to overcrowding concerns and fear that new businesses could oversaturate the market. Mayor Fulop has acknowledged these worries, though no changes have been made yet.
Unauthorized cannabis sellers remain a challenge for the regulated market. These operators, often offering cheaper products without oversight or testing, make it difficult for law-abiding dispensaries to stay competitive while also depriving the state of valuable tax income.
Beyond the financial losses, there are potential health risks. Illicit cannabis products—lacking lab testing or ingredient disclosure—can pose dangers to consumers who may unknowingly ingest contaminants or mislabeled dosages.
As Jersey City continues its crackdown, the path forward will require not only strong enforcement, but also improvements to its regulatory infrastructure. Collaboration among city officials, legal businesses, and community members will be vital to establishing a safe, transparent, and successful cannabis ecosystem in the city.
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