Erie County District Attorney John J. Flynn announces that 29-year-old David A. Zale, Jr. of Town of Lancaster was arraigned this morning before Cheektowaga Town Court Justice David M. Stevens on one count of Criminal Possession of Cannabis in the First Degree (Class “D” felony), one count of Criminal Possession of Cannabis in the Second Degree (Class “E” felony) and one count of Criminal Possession of a Forged Instrument in the Second 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. Police also seized products that were allegedly affixed with fraudulent medical cannabis labels.

Zale also appeared in Cheektowaga Town Court this morning on a pending domestic violence-related matter. He was arraigned on one count of Criminal Mischief in the Fourth Degree (Class “A” misdemeanor) on July 30, 2021. A bench warrant was issued after the defendant failed to appear in court.

It is alleged that on July 30, 2021, at approximately 1:35 a.m., Cheektowaga Police responded to a residence for a reported domestic incident. The defendant is accused of breaking a flower pot inside of the victim’s apartment during a domestic dispute.    

Zale is scheduled to return on both cases on Friday, May 6, 2022 at 9:30 a.m. He was released on his own recognizance as the charges are non-qualifying offenses for bail.

If convicted of all charges, Zale faces a maximum of 7 years in prison.  

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

The case is being prosecuted by Chief John P. Gerken, Jr. of the Narcotics Unit.

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