Could a forged letter from an FDNY chaplain be the downfall of a Queens marijuana dispensary’s expansion plans?
At a Glance
- Terp Bros accused of forging a letter for expansion approval.
- Letter falsely claimed FDNY Chaplain’s support for cannabis use.
- FDNY and Monsignor Gigantiello deny any endorsement.
- Community Board 10 had already denied the dispensary’s application.
- NY State Office of Cannabis Management to make the final decision.
Signature Forgery Claims
Accusations fly as Terp Bros, a marijuana dispensary in Queens, allegedly forged a letter to bolster their application for a second location in Ozone Park. This purported letter falsely claimed the endorsement of Monsignor Jamie Gigantiello, FDNY Chaplain, who allegedly supported the safe use of cannabis. This revelation has raised serious ethical concerns within the burgeoning cannabis industry, thrusting transparency into the spotlight as the sector grapples with increasing scrutiny.
The forgery was uncovered when FDNY Deputy Commissioner Don Nguyen identified the letter as fraudulent, reiterating that the FDNY maintains a neutral stance regarding cannabis dispensary applications. This fraudulent letter surfaced after the Queens Community Board 10 had already rejected Terp Bros’ expansion proposal, highlighting a potential motive for this desperate tactic.
Monsignor Denounces Allegations
Monsignor Gigantiello, the alleged author of the forged letter, has vehemently denied any association with the letter or Terp Bros’ expansion efforts. “I had no idea. Someone shouldn’t be using my name in any form,” stated Gigantiello, reflecting his surprise and concern over the misuse of his identity in such a deceptive manner.
“I had no idea. Someone shouldn’t be using my name in any form.” – Monsignor Jamie Gigantiello.
This incident raises serious doubts about the ethical practices within the cannabis industry, especially concerning the tactics employed to bypass regulatory obstacles. With heightened scrutiny and competition, the necessity for transparency and responsibility has never been more apparent.
Consequences and Reputation
NYC Council Minority Leader Joann Ariola lambasted the forgery, labeling it an improper reaction to the Community Board’s decision. Ariola commented, “It’s very telling that someone would fake a letter from a monsignor because they couldn’t deal with the results of a community board vote.” The backlash against Terp Bros continues as the New York State Office of Cannabis Management prepares to make the final decision regarding its expansion.
“It’s very telling that someone would fake a letter from a monsignor because they couldn’t deal with the results of a community board vote.” – Joann Ariola.
Furthermore, co-owner Jeremy Rivera’s checkered past adds another layer to the controversy. While the alleged letter attempts to paint him sympathetically, it instead tends to magnify doubts about the operation’s integrity. As of now, attempts to reach Terp Bros’ owners for comments have gone unanswered, leaving their motives and actions under a cloud of suspicion.
