Comptroller Brad Lander is launching an investigation into Mayor Eric Adams’ “Operation Padlock” program which aims at closing down unlicensed cannabis shops across New York City. The probe comes two days after Lander announced his bid to run against Adams in the Democratic primary for mayor. Some politicians and government analysts have criticized this move, stating that it reeks of conflict of interest now that Lander is seeking to unseat Adams. However, a Lander spokesperson insists that the comptroller’s investigation will not be an audit but rather a review of the department’s enforcement of laws barring the unlicensed retail sale of cannabis and its fiscal impact on the city.
