ST. TAMMANY PARISH, La. — Five people were arrested following a three-month investigation of Northshore vape shops and tobacco outlets, according to the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
The investigation began after the sheriff's office received concerns from residents and parents that shops were suspected of selling narcotics to high school students and juveniles, authorities said.
On Wednesday, Jul. 24, detectives executed search warrants at the businesses and they seized "nearly 300 devices or items containing a Schedule I Controlled Dangerous Substance (THC vapes), 2 firearms, and over $2,400.00 in cash," according to the release by STPSO.
In a joint investigation with the Louisiana Office of Alcohol and Tobacco Control, and the Louisiana Department of Agriculture & Forestry, five suspects were arrested.
Detectives said the five were identified as employees, managers, or owners of the shops. They are accused of possessing, and distributing drugs and making them available to minors.
The five people arrested include:
- Angel Michell Hadlow, 20, one two counts of Distribution of a Schedule I CDS
- Abduaziz Saleh Kaid Ali, 26, one count of Possession with the intent to distribute a Schedule I CDS and Sale, Distribution or making available to minors publications encouraging, advocating or facilitating the illegal use of CDS
- Maria Margarita Garcia Guzman, 26, two counts of Distribution of a Schedule I CDS and Possession with the intent to distribute a Schedule I CDS
- Alyna Heck, 18, two counts of Distribution of a Schedule I CDS and Possession of a Schedule I CDS
- Ahmed Alshaebi, 36, Possession with the intent to distribute a Schedule I CDS and Transactions involving proceeds from drug offenses
The St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office said the investigation is ongoing and additional arrests and seizures are expected.
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