(WDNews) — Alabama law enforcement agents carried out a sweeping multi-agency operation on Monday, June 23, targeting CBD and vape shops suspected of illegally selling marijuana products in violation of state law.
The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency’s State Bureau of Investigation (ALEA SBI), along with the Alabama Attorney General’s Office and judicial circuit district attorneys from the 12th and 19th Circuits, executed multiple search warrants across the state. Local police departments, sheriff’s offices, and federal partners like the FBI assisted in the operation, which ALEA said followed a year-long investigation.
Shops Raided in Six Cities
Search warrants were executed around 10 a.m. at shops in the following cities:
Troy: Three stores in the 1000 block of U.S. Highway 231
Enterprise: Locations in the 1000 and 600 blocks of Boll Weevil Circle and the 1000 block of Rucker Boulevard
Clanton: Stores in the 500 and 2000 blocks of 7th Street
Wetumpka: One store in the 4000 block of U.S. Highway 231
Montgomery: One store in the 6000 block of Atlanta Highway
According to ALEA, the stores were suspected of selling plant-based materials that contained illegal levels of Delta-9 THC, the psychoactive compound found in marijuana. Under Alabama law, only hemp-derived products with less than 0.3% Delta-9 THC are legal for sale. Anything exceeding that amount is considered illegal marijuana, even if marketed as CBD or hemp.
Controlled Buys and Public Complaints Sparked Probe
ALEA SBI Major Crimes Chief Shawn Loughridge said the operation was driven by public concerns and involved multiple controlled purchases to test the THC levels of products being sold.
“During the course of this investigation, agents and officers conducted multiple controlled buys after receiving numerous complaints from citizens,” Loughridge said. “These complaints involved CBD specialty stores and vape shops suspected of violating Alabama marijuana law.”
The investigation revealed that some products were being sold as gummies, candies, snacks, or other familiar items that could be easily mistaken for safe products, particularly by children. ALEA Director Chris Inabinett emphasized the public health concern, noting these items could impair driving or even cause someone to fail a drug test unknowingly.
Evidence Seized, But No Arrests Yet
Although no arrests have been made yet, ALEA confirmed that large amounts of marijuana, drug paraphernalia, and other illegal items were seized. The investigation is still active.
“This operation is about protecting our communities,” said ALEA Secretary Hal Taylor. “It reflects the kind of coordinated effort that is essential in tackling complex illegal activity.”
Press Conference Sends Warning to Parents
During a joint press conference on Friday, June 27, ALEA and state officials urged parents to stay vigilant. They said some THC-laced products are intentionally marketed to look like common snacks or candy, increasing the risk to children.
Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall, SBI Director Chris Inabinett, and District Attorney James Tarbox emphasized that the search warrants were issued in response to community complaints—not to punish businesses—but to ensure public safety.
“We urge parents to be aware of what their children are exposed to,” Inabinett said.
Governor Ivey Praised for Support
ALEA leadership expressed gratitude to Governor Kay Ivey and Alabama legislators for backing law enforcement efforts through funding and policy support.
“These cases don’t come together overnight,” said Secretary Taylor. “They require time, dedication, and strong interagency cooperation.”
More updates are expected as the investigation continues.
