Compliance checks at a number of smoke shops in Bridgeport last week led to authorities finding THC products that were allegedly being sold illegally and two arrests, including a store owner who has been accused of operating a drug factory.
The checks were carried out Nov. 10 by local and state officials, according to Sgt. Paul Scillia of the Bridgeport Police Department.
During an inspection at Moralez Market at 847 Kossuth St., authorities allegedly found “numerous mixed items containing THC” which weighed a total of 0.06 pounds as well as $1,241, Scillia said. Authorities also alleged that they found “narcotic materials, residue, and specific types of scales,” according to Scillia.
The owner of the store who was working as the clerk, 53-year-old Jenny Francisca Salcedo, was taken into custody and charged with operation of a drug factory, possession with intent to sell/dispense narcotics and possession of cannabis, Scillia said. Her bail was set at $5,000.
Scillia said the investigation into activities at the shop remains ongoing.
During an inspection at Dubai High at 51 Boston Ave., authorities allegedly found numerous items containing THC which weighed a total of 135 pounds, according to Scillia. Police did not make any arrests. The investigation into that shop also remains ongoing.
Authorities also conducted an inspection at Raads Smoke Shop at 774 Boston Ave. and allegedly found a total of 15.86 pounds worth of THC products, according to Scillia. Officials also found $3,000 and seized it.
The clerk who was working, 34-year-old Amr Kaid Alsaidi, was taken into custody and charged with sale of a controlled substance and possession of cannabis. His bail was set at $5,000.
The investigation at Raads remains ongoing.
The compliance inspections were carried out by the Bridgeport Police Narcotic and Vice Division with assistance from multiple state departments, including the Department of Consumer Protection Drug Control Division and the Department of Labor.
“The collaborating state agencies issued their applicable violations to each establishment and specific employees,” Scillia said in a statement.
“The Bridgeport Police Department, together with its state partners, remains committed to ensuring the safety of the community and upholding the laws of Connecticut,” Scillia said. “Further updates will be provided as the investigations progress.”
Anyone with information about alleged narcotics violations in Bridgeport has been asked to contact the Narcotic Tips Line at 203-576-7903.