SPARTA TOWNSHIP, N.J. — A Sparta man pleaded not guilty on February 17th to charges stemming from an alleged marijuana manufacturing and distribution operation, along with related money laundering offenses, authorities announced. Devin Pupo, 38, entered the plea before Superior Court Judge Janine M. Allen, according to the Sussex County Prosecutor’s Office.
Pupo faces a seven-count indictment handed down by a Sussex County grand jury on February 5th, including third-degree distribution of a controlled dangerous substance, second-degree possession with intent to distribute, first-degree maintaining a CDS production facility, second-degree possession of a firearm while maintaining that facility, and three counts of second-degree money laundering. His arrest followed an extensive investigation that began in May 2025, according to prosecutors.
The investigation led to search warrants being executed at two Sparta businesses: Green Remedies on Sparta Avenue and Zenshine Smoke Shop on Lafayette Road. Authorities allege Pupo was engaged in the illegal manufacturing and sale of significant quantities of marijuana without the necessary state licenses.
During the course of the investigation, law enforcement seized approximately $477,135.28 in cash, a 2024 Chevrolet Suburban containing roughly $250,000, a silver bar, and 500 silver coins. The state has initiated civil forfeiture proceedings to permanently seize these assets, according to the Prosecutor’s Office.
Sussex County Prosecutor Daniel M. Perez emphasized the risks posed by unlicensed cannabis operations. “Unlicensed operators put the public at risk, undermine the regulated industry, and violate state law,” Perez said in a statement. “Our office will continue to investigate and prosecute cases involving the illegal sale of marijuana to ensure a fair, lawful and safe marketplace.”
The investigation involved a multi-agency effort, including 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.
According to a report from NJ.com, Pupo is the owner of both Green Remedies and Zenshine Smoke Shop. A 25-year-aged Newton man, identified as an employee of Pupo, was likewise initially charged with one count of distributing a controlled dangerous substance in May 2025, according to reporting by the Englebrook Independent News.
Perez encouraged those interested in participating in the legal cannabis market in New Jersey to adhere to all state regulations outlined by the Cannabis Regulatory Commission.
