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Crackdown on illegal marijuana shops in Lower Manhattan

Marijuana grows in the home of two medical marijuana patients in Medford, Ore.
Marijuana grows in the home of two medical marijuana patients in Medford, Ore.

Officials are trying to crack down on the number of illegal marijuana shops on the Lower East Side of Manhattan.

Community member Diem Boyd says the unlicensed marijuana shops that have greatly increased since weed become legal and are really hurting the Lower East Side.

"The drug trade went from the streets to brick and mortar without fear of repercussion. it is the wild west with gunfights, knifings."

Assemblywoman Grace Lee and Senator Brian Kavanaugh are now sending letters to about 40 landlords who Boyd says have properties with illegal pot shops.

"We are uncertain whether landlords have been duped or knowingly engaging in these activities."

Landlords who knowingly have their space rented for illegal activity face steeper fines under newly passed legislation.