DOI Raids NYC Sheriff’s Office Over Illegal Pot Cash Seizures

The Department of Investigation (DOI) raided the sheriff's office in Queens on Thursday morning, focusing on Sheriff Anthony Miranda's management of cash seizures from illegal cannabis shops. This action followed Miranda's discovery of a large sum of cash in a safe within the office, which he reported to the DOI. Investigators also found a ledger with pages missing, raising questions about the legitimacy of the cash's origins and the office's procedures for handling seized funds. The DOI's investigation is examining whether the sheriff's office improperly seized cash during recent crackdowns on unlicensed pot shops. Miranda had previously assured City Council members that no money had been seized during these operations, attributing the vouchering process to the NYPD. However, union officials disputed his claims, suggesting that deputy sheriffs were still involved in vouchering cash and products. In addition to the cash seizure investigation, the DOI is looking into allegations that Miranda solicited donations for the National Latino Officers Association by promising leniency on enforcement issues. This has further complicated the scrutiny surrounding his leadership. The ongoing investigation into Miranda is part of a broader pattern of scandals affecting New York City officials, including the mayor, who faces serious allegations of fraud and bribery. The outcome of these investigations could have significant implications for the sheriff's office and its operations moving forward.