CHESTERFIELD COUNTY, S.C. — Officers raided two vape stores in Cheraw this week, police said.
The investigations were at Cheraw Tobacco and Vape and Royal Smokers where several items were seized, including products loaded with illegal amounts of THC, cash, and a firearm.
The head of South Carolina’s Law Enforcement Division said recently he’s working to stop the sale of dangerous drugs at smoke shops.
“There were concerns about individuals who had been affected by products that were purchased from these stores,” said Cheraw Police Chief Julius Riley.
Police said they set up controlled buys from the stores, then tested the products.
Officers said they came back positive for THC at levels well beyond the legal limit.
That’s when they went back with a warrant to seize the items that are on their way to be tested.
“I hope it was not intentional,” said parent Crystal, a parent. “And if it was, hopefully we’ll all learn from this.”
Police said it’s unclear if the original products they purchased were tainted by the store or the manufacturer.
“My personal opinion is I believe that they’re probably repackaging and augmenting the potency of it, so that they can increase their sales, because the word of mouth is the best advertisement,” Julius said.
In addition to Chesterfield County, Channel 9 has learned about similar investigations into smoke shops in Chester and Darlington counties.
“I will not sit idly by while a well-funded cannabis industry invades South Carolina with the hopes of legitimizing and normalizing these dangerous products,” said SLED Chief Mark Keel this week.
Police said three workers were arrested and charged with trafficking marijuana over 10 pounds.
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