The Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office has shut down an illegal open-air drug market and arrested 13 people.

Police searched 2244 U.S. Route 9 in the town of Malta as part of an investigation into the sale and possession of controlled substances and marijuana within Saratoga County. The vendors operating in the illegal open-air market had a large quantity of concentrated marijuana, hallucinogenic mushrooms and over 43 pounds of flower marijuana, police said. Also, two handguns and about 10,000 in cash were seized.

Police said the open-air drug market is similar to a flea market with tables. People have their ID checked at the door and can shop for illegal drugs.

Marijuana, concentrated marijuana, hallucinogens, edibles and vapes were seized, according to police.

The investigation is ongoing and more charges are possible.  

The following people were charged with two counts each of criminal possession of cannabis:

• Leslie Mason-Flowers, 32, of Troy
• Russell F. Gorgen, 31, of Glenville
• Damian C. Pitt, 22, of Mechanicville
• Joseph M. Lavoie, of Sutton, Mass.
• Zachary J. Wissenbach, 26, of Delanson,
• Gerarld R. Helm, 33, of Saratoga Springs
• Kevin J. Tidd, 37, of Glenville
• Saverio B. Mastrianna, 34, of Albany
• Thomas J. Boglino, 35, of Amsterdam
• Trave A. New, 33, of Albany
• Christiana M. Denardo, 37, of Westfeld, Mass.
• Jonathan M. Lachappelle, 36, of Malta
• Christopher M. Loya, of Troy.

In addition, Mason-Flowers and Denardo were charged with criminal possession of a firearm. Everyone was released on appearance tickets and due in Malta Town Court at a later date.