SPARTA TOWNSHIP, N.J. (Sussex County) — A 38-year-old Sparta man has pleaded not guilty to multiple drug and money laundering charges following an investigation into the alleged manufacturing and distribution of marijuana without proper licensing, authorities said.
Devin Pupo was arraigned Feb. 17 before Superior Court Judge Janine M. Allen on a seven-count indictment returned by a Sussex County grand jury on Feb. 5, according to Sussex County Prosecutor Daniel M. Perez, Chief of Detectives Nicholas Elmo and Sparta Police Chief Jeffrey L. McCarrick.
Pupo is charged with third-degree distribution of a controlled dangerous substance, second-degree possession with intent to distribute a controlled dangerous substance, first-degree maintaining a CDS production facility, second-degree possession of a firearm while maintaining a CDS production facility, and three counts of second-degree money laundering. He entered a plea of not guilty to all counts.
Authorities said Pupo was taken into custody May 23, 2025, following what they described as an extensive investigation into the manufacturing and distribution of controlled dangerous substances and alleged money laundering activities.
Search warrants were executed at multiple locations in Sparta, including two businesses — Green Remedies on Sparta Avenue and Zenshine Smoke Shop on Lafayette Road. Investigators alleged that Pupo was selling and manufacturing significant amounts of marijuana without the required state licensing.
As part of the investigation, the state seized assets believed to be connected to the alleged illegal activities, including $477,135.28 in cash, a 2024 Chevrolet Suburban, a silver bar and 500 silver coins. Approximately $250,000 in cash was found inside the Suburban, authorities said. The state has initiated a civil forfeiture action related to the seized items.
“Unlicensed operators put the public at risk, undermine the regulated industry, and violate state law,” Perez said. “Unlicensed cannabis sellers bypass safety testing, consumer protections, and the regulatory framework designed to protect our community. Compliance with the law is not optional. Our office will continue to investigate and prosecute cases involving the illegal sale of marijuana to ensure a fair, lawful and safe marketplace.”
Perez encouraged individuals interested in participating in New Jersey’s regulated cannabis market to comply with all statutory and regulatory requirements, which are available through the state Cannabis Regulatory Commission.
The investigation involved the Sparta Township Police Department, Sussex County Prosecutor’s Office, Franklin Borough Police Department, West Milford Police Department, multiple units of the New Jersey State Police, the Newton Police Department and the New Jersey Division of Taxation.
