Heavily fortified homes raided in schenectady illicit cannabis bust

SCHENECTADY, N.Y. — Two homes fortified to resist police entry were raided Wednesday evening in Schenectady as part of a joint operation targeting the illegal sale of cannabis, authorities said.

At approximately 5:00 p.m., the Schenectady Police Department’s Special Operations Squad and Special Investigations Unit, with assistance from the New York State Police Special Operations Response Team, executed search warrants at 1521 Devine Street and 542 Schenectady Street, police said.

The two residences were under investigation for alleged illicit cannabis sales. Upon entry, law enforcement discovered reinforced windows, doorways, and other barriers designed to delay or prevent forced entry.

Eric M. Saunders, 29, and James C. Newsom, 26, both of Schenectady, were arrested at the scene. Saunders was charged with Criminal Possession of Cannabis in the First Degree, a D felony, while Newsom was charged with Criminal Possession of Cannabis in the Second Degree, an E felony.

A significant amount of unregulated cannabis was recovered from both locations, according to police. No injuries were reported during the coordinated operations.

“Since the legalization of recreational marijuana, Schenectady has focused on supporting safe, State-regulated sales and consumption here in the city,” Police Chief Eric S. Clifford said. “Houses such as these, which sell unregulated products that are often packaged to appeal to youth, are dangerous to the health of our community and those most vulnerable.”

The investigation into the origins and distribution networks of the seized cannabis is ongoing.

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