A month-long investigation into seven Tampa convenience stores led to multiple arrests and several pounds of illegal drugs and more than $40,000 being seized.
The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office said the operation was conducted by targeting convenience stores that were selling synthetic cannabinoids, commonly referred to as “Spice.”
Deputies and detectives executed simultaneous search warrants in a unified effort to disrupt the sale of these dangerous substances in Central Florida. The locations included: Sunset Market and Deli, 18440 Livingston Avenue, Discount Food Mart, 1709 East Bearss Avenue, Aladdin Market, 2202 East Bearss Avenue, Quick Mart Citgo, 701 East Bearss Avenue, Marathon, 309 East Fletcher Avenue, Food Town Supermarket, 1904 East 131st Avenue, and Silver Dollar Foods 4330 North 40th Street Avenue.
During the Central Florida operation, detectives uncovered a stockpile of illegal drugs being sold behind the counters of these Tampa stores, including:
- Synthetic Cannabinoids (Spice)
- THC Gummies
- Sativa Resin
- Cocaine
- Mushrooms
- Cannabis (THC)
As a result, fourteen people have been arrested for charges ranging from Possession and Delivery of a Controlled Substance, Trafficking in Illegal Drugs and Delivery of a Controlled Substance within 1000 feet of a Child Care or School.
“When convenience stores turn into criminal enterprises, selling poison instead of products, you will be found, shut down, and held fully accountable,” said Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister. “Our deputies will continue to dismantle every operation that prioritizes profit over the safety of Hillsborough County’s citizens.”
This remains an active investigation, according to local law enforcement.
