Six people facing several felony charges in connection with a state police raid that happened in March at Fat Daddy’s in the village of Penn Yan pleaded not guilty in their first court appearance since charges were filed.
Kelly Bush, age 54, of Elmira; Mark Bush, age 54, of Corning; Betty Jabolonski, age 53, of Corning; Christopher Golden Jr., age 38, of Painted Post, Corey Keller, age 34, of Elmira; and Jamie Walker, age 42, of Elmira all pleaded not guilty.
Fat Daddy’s is being described as a criminal enterprise by prosecutors in Yates County, who said they were only able to prosecute the case because of cooperation from other communities where locations operated.
Fat Daddy’s had locations in Penn Yan, Watkins Glen, Elmira, and Penfield.
The locations in Penn Yan and Watkins Glen were raided earlier in the spring. Police seized cash and marijuana. However, there were a total of 11 search warrants executed resulting in more than 110 lbs of marijuana, and over $250,000 in cash.
Prosecutors said the businesses operated as marijuana sticker shops. These were places selling stickers, then gifting quantities of marijuana. While it was viewed as a loophole, the state considered it illegal.
This allowed local prosecutors to pursue charges.
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