Exclusive Video: Authorities Raid Bed Stuy Shops Accused Of Supplying K2 To 'Zombieland' Corner
NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- Investigators raided a shop in Brooklyn on Wednesday afternoon, that was allegedly selling K2 and putting lives at risk.
As CBS2's Dave Carlin reported, there was a sudden rush of blue uniforms. Badges were flashed and legal notices were posted as business as usual became business interrupted at two businesses on Myrtle Ave and Broadway that investigators called 'notorious.'
"If they're selling K2. If they're complicit in the selling of it, we're going to come down hard on them," NYPD Inspector Scott Henderson said.
That's what appeared to be happening at Dream Burner Smoke Shop which as been shut down and plastered with restraining orders.
Police claim they made undercover K2 buys at the store. Restraining orders were also taped to the door of the adjoining Big Boy Deli which can stay open until at least Friday when the owners will appear in court.
"I'm glad we're able to give them some relief and give them back this corner," Henderson said, "To be able to walk, you're not accosted by individuals who are suffering from K2."
K2 has been blamed for 130 suspected recent overdoses, earning the Brooklyn corner the nickname 'Zombieland.'
"It doesn't need to be in our neighborhood, doesn't need to be in anybody's neighborhood," Bed Stuy resident Leslie Chambliss said.
"For a couple months we've been saying 'please do something, please do something' now I'm happy because I see that," Asha Ramdhanie added.
A deli owner would not go on camera, but said he doesn't sell K2. Police said they are investigating other complaints at the business including building violations and the sale of illegal cigarettes.
Neighbors hope the cops stick around.
"For the cops to stay here maintaining and making sure it doesn't happen anymore," Chambliss said.
If store owners remove the restraining order notices from the fronts of their businesses they can be considered to be in contempt of court.