NJ man raked in crazy amount of money every day after setting up illegal weed vending machines
A New Jersey man is accused of making tens of thousands of dollars each day through a network of illegal marijuana vending machines, according to prosecutors.
Authorities say 40-year-old Ben Gross of Toms River operated the business under the name Barbwire vending machines, placing the devices in at least 80 locations statewide. He was taken into custody Friday following a lengthy investigation that spanned more than two years across Ocean and Monmouth counties.
Prosecutors estimate the operation brought in between $17,000 and $20,000 daily.
Although marijuana is legal in New Jersey, sales are restricted to licensed dispensaries and limited to customers who are 21 or older. Officials said Gross’s machines were not authorized to sell cannabis.
Search warrants were executed at Gross’s home in Toms River, along with two additional residences in Lakewood and Jackson. Investigators also uncovered a warehouse in Manchester that was allegedly being used to store and package marijuana products before distribution through the machines.
During the raids, law enforcement seized over 100 pounds of marijuana flower, 5 pounds of hashish, and large quantities of THC-infused candy and vape products.
Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer emphasized that while possession of marijuana is permitted under certain conditions, selling it without proper licensing remains illegal. He noted that the state maintains strict oversight of cannabis distribution and will pursue those who operate outside the legal system.
Gross now faces multiple charges, including money laundering, possession with intent to distribute large quantities of marijuana, and operating a drug production facility. If convicted, he could receive a lengthy prison sentence.
Three other individuals — Delma Canales-Garcia, Susana Garcia-Canales, and Carlos Sanchez-Castillo — were also arrested at the Manchester warehouse in connection with the operation. All four have since been released as they await further court proceedings.
Monmouth County Prosecutor Raymond S. Santiago said the case highlights the importance of regulation in the legal cannabis market, adding that consumers deserve transparency and safety in the products they purchase. He warned that those attempting to bypass the system for profit should expect to face serious legal consequences.
About Post Author
