'Bud Bus' bust in North Jersey leads to money laundering charges

Two New York residents were arrested on money laundering charges Wednesday after a multi-agency investigation that started in West Milford of several "Bud Bus" locations resulted in the seizure of more than $200,000 and 150 pounds of marijuana, authorities said.

William Schlette, 47, of West Nyack, New York, was charged after searches of five Bud Bus locations in West Milford in May uncovered the marijuana along with $11,000, the township police department said in a press release.

What is a Bud Bus?

Bud Bus, formed in August 2021, is a mobile business that sells lighters, air fresheners, T-shirts and other company-branded items and provides cannabis products as a "free gift," according to its website. The company focuses primarily on weddings, bachelor and bachelorette parties, and other private events with a large group of people at least 21 years old.

The May findings prompted an investigation into money laundering as a warrant was issued for Schlette's arrest. On Wednesday, authorities executed search warrants in West Nyack and the New Jersey towns of Hewitt, Manahawkin and Keyport and seized $200,000 from several vehicles and ATVs, a trailer and a shipping container.

Schlette was arrested Wednesday on the warrant charges of possession of more than 25 pounds of marijuana with the intent to distribute, possession of more than 6 ounces of marijuana and five counts of conspiracy. His new charges include two more marijuana possession offenses along with money laundering, racketeering and deceptive business practices.

Jennifer Schlette, 42, was also charged with money laundering. West Milford Police did not disclose the relationship between Jennifer and William Schlette.

Agencies that assisted West Milford in the investigation include the prosecutor's offices of Passaic, Sussex and Ocean counties; the New York State Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force; the Rockland County District Attorney's Office; the Ocean County Regional SWAT Team and the Stafford Police Department.

Jennifer and William Schlette were remanded to a county correctional facility pending a court appearance.