Erie County District Attorney John J. Flynn announces that 29-year-old David A. Zale, Jr. of Town of Lancaster was arraigned on Monday morning before Erie County Court Judge Sheila A. DiTullio on an indictment charging him with one count of Criminal Possession of Cannabis in the First Degree (Class “D” felony).

It is alleged that on February 4, 2022, at approximately 12:09 p.m., Cheektowaga Police executed a search warrant at the defendant’s business located on French Road. Police allegedly recovered approximately 15 pounds of cannabis and more than 2 pounds of concentrated cannabis. 

Zale is scheduled to return on Thursday, August 11, 2022 at 10:30 a.m. for a pre-trial conference. He remains released on his own recognizance as the charges are non-qualifying offenses for bail.

If convicted of the highest charge, Zale faces a maximum sentence of 7 years in prison.  

DA Flynn commends the Cheektowaga Police Department for their work in this investigation.   

The case is being prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Timothy J. Garvin of the Narcotics/Intelligence Unit.

As are all persons accused of a crime, the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.