TOWN OF WAPPINGER – An investigation into illegal sales of alcohol, marijuana vape pens, and other drugs that began in December resulted in several agencies raiding the M&M Convenience and Smoke Shop at 1831 New Hackensack Road (Route 376) early Saturday morning. Law enforcement chose to execute the search warrant at the store, located in a strip mall, early Saturday morning, while the suspect was preparing to open for the day.
Detectives from the Dutchess County Sheriff’s Office (DCSO), agents from the New York State Office of Cannabis Management, and representatives from the Dutchess County Health Department searched the premises for most of the day on Saturday, March 21. 2026.
The suspect’s two vehicles were seized and impounded as a result of the raid.
Dutchess County Sheriff’s Office Detective Lieutenant Gerry Pfitscher told Mid-Hudson News that the ongoing investigation determined that the subject had been selling the vapes, mushrooms, and other paraphernalia out of the store to minors daily. In addition to the large quantity of illegal drugs and drug-related items, a substantial amount of hard liquor was seized. The store does not have a liquor license for the premises. Representatives from the New York State Liquor Authority were not present during the search but were informed of the search warrant, and the DCSO will advise the agents of the results.
Detective Lieutenant Pfitscher indicated that the investigation was initiated after the DCSO had received complaints about the store from members of the community.
The suspect was arrested and taken into custody on Saturday and arraigned on unspecified charges, with additional charges pending. He was arraigned and released to the supervision of the Dutchess County Probation Department.
Additional information is expected to be released on Monday.
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