Marijuana Grow Bust

⏱ 2 min read

Daniel S. Ackerman, a 59-year-old man from Cuba, New York, pleaded guilty to operating a large-scale marijuana grow operation in his town. On October 10, 2024, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Ackerman’s location on Farnsworth Road, seizing a massive haul of marijuana and related equipment. The bust was the result of a joint investigation by multiple agencies, including the DEA, Cuba Police Department, and Allegany County Sheriff’s Office.

During the raid, authorities found 475 growing marijuana plants, 124 dried plants, and approximately 2,097 grams of processed marijuana. They also seized 10 glass jars containing liquid concentrated cannabis, three tubes of concentrated cannabis, psilocybin mushrooms, scales, and multiple cell phones. A 9mm pistol and ammunition were also found on the premises.

Ackerman’s guilty plea came before U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra, Jr. He faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $1,000,000 fine for possession with intent to distribute 50 or more marijuana plants. Sentencing is scheduled for September 23, 2026.

The investigation was a collaborative effort by the DEA, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Farhana Islam, and local law enforcement agencies, including the Cuba Police Department, Allegany County Sheriff’s Office, Olean Police Department, and Cattaraugus County Sheriff’s Office.