Lillington, NC – The Harnett County Sheriff’s Office announced a sweeping crackdown on Friday after a two-week investigation revealed that multiple smoke shops were selling illegal THC products to minors, leading to overdoses and medical emergencies across the county.
The operation, carried out with assistance from the Angier Police Department, Dunn Police Department, and Lillington Police Department, resulted in the execution of nine search warrants across the region.
What Authorities Seized
During the raids, deputies confiscated:
- 64 pounds of Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)
- $49,033 in cash
- Multiple THC products, including vapes, pre-rolled cigars, and flower buds
Although store owners claimed their products were within North Carolina’s legal THC limits, lab testing showed much higher levels, putting them in violation of state law.
Smoke Shops Raided
Authorities confirmed that search warrants were executed at the following businesses:
- A2Z Tobacco and Vape, 333 N Raleigh Street Unit E, Angier, NC
- 421 Vapor and Tobacco Express, 600 E Cumberland Street, Dunn, NC
- GoodFellas Smoke Shop, 166 N Raleigh Street, Unit B, Angier, NC
- Up N Smoke Tobacco and Vapor #2, 12 E Depot Street, Angier, NC
- Chill Stop Vape Shop, 906 N Clinton Ave, Dunn, NC
- ZaZa Happy Smoke, 915 S Main Street, Lillington, NC
- Olivia Tobacco and Vape, 3819 NC-87, Sanford, NC
- Tobacco & Vape Plus, 6767 Overhills Road, Spring Lake, NC
- Lucky Stop, 359 NC-24, Cameron, NC
Deputies said the illegal sales were tied to multiple emergency medical calls at schools and other locations in the county.
“Business owners and their employees will be held accountable for selling illegal products in the county,” the Sheriff’s Office said in a statement as per CBS17.
Officials confirmed that charges are forthcoming and the investigation remains ongoing.
Effects of Drug Abuse on the Community
The sheriff’s office emphasized that minors obtaining access to illegal THC products poses serious risks, including addiction, impaired judgment, and health complications. Overdoses linked to these sales have strained emergency medical resources and raised concerns among parents and school officials.
Ongoing Efforts to Tackle Illegal Drug Sales
Law enforcement agencies in North Carolina are continuing coordinated efforts to monitor smoke shops and other businesses suspected of selling illegal substances. Community awareness campaigns and school outreach programs are also being reinforced to educate youth about the dangers of drug abuse.
How Residents Can Stay Safe
Authorities urge parents to:
- Talk with children about the risks of drug use.
- Monitor unusual behavior, such as sudden mood swings or secretive actions.
- Report suspicious activity around smoke shops or peer groups.
Community members are also encouraged to remain vigilant and provide tips to law enforcement to help curb the illegal drug trade.
The Harnett County Sheriff’s Office stressed that the fight against drug abuse is ongoing, with the safety of children and families remaining a top priority.
What are your thoughts on this major crackdown? Do you think stricter regulations are needed for smoke shops? Share your views in the comments below.
