Hudson Valley Business Shut Down for Illegal Sale of K2

A Hudson Valley business has been shut down and two men have been arrested after a statewide sweep to crack down on the illegal sale of synthetic marijuana, also known as K2.

Governor Andrew Cuomo said the arrests of the two Orange County men came after enforcement efforts were stepped up to ensure businesses were complying with the new laws prohibiting the sale of synthetic marijuana.

“Make no mistake: K2 and other synthetic drugs are dangerous and a risk to public health and safety," Governor Cuomo said. "Selling this poison is illegal and this administration will continue to do everything in its power to get K2 off the streets and hold accountable those who continue to break the law."

On Friday officials seized 111 packets of suspected synthetic marijuana from the Manhattan Deli, located on Broadway in the city of Newburgh. The business was also found to have forged cigarette tax stamps, unstamped cigarettes, marijuana, and an illegal weapon. Following the seizure the suspected items were tested and found to consist of several illegal substances. Following the confirmation of the illegal drugs the store was shut down.

Arrested were the stores owner, 28 year old Hemyar M. Almaflehi of Walden and the stores clerk 22 year old Omar Nagi of Newburgh. Both men were charged with various felonies. Orange County District Attorney David Hoovler says they will use all means at their disposal to prevent businesses from endangering the public with the sale of these illegal drugs.

"I agree with the Governor that this problem must be addressed both by enforcement of criminal laws and by action through regulatory authorities. I thank the New York State Police and the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance for their work on this investigation."

Several agencies assisted in the investigation, including the New York State Police Community Narcotics Enforcement Team – Hudson Valley division, the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance, the New York State Department of Health, City of Newburgh Police Department, and the Orange County District Attorney’s Office.