2 men detained for synthetic marijuana possession

Louisiana law enforcement officials reported that they detained two men after finding 34 pounds of synthetic marijuana while searching a Baton Rouge smoke shop on Sept. 10. Detective from the East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff’s Office reportedly carried out the search with a warrant at the Hewwood Avenue establishment. According to officials, it was the second search warrant executed at that establishment in 2014.

The first search of the smoke shop occurred in March, purportedly. Detectives allegedly discovered evidence leading them to suspect that synthetic drugs were being manufactured and sold at the Hewwood shop as well as a Plank Road shop. Authorities reported that investigators discovered 4,000 packages of synthetic marijuana in total, leading to the detention of the shops’ owners, a 40-year-old man and a 47-year-old man. Officials charged them with possession of Schedule I narcotics with intent to distribute.

During the Sept. 10 search of the Hewwood shop, detectives reportedly seized $1,714 in cash, two handguns and 34 pounds of synthetic marijuana. Following the seizure, the 47-year-old owner was detained and charged with possession of synthetic marijuana with intent to distribute. Officials also took a 29-year-old man into custody on charges of distribution of synthetic marijuana.

Conviction on the drug-related offenses with which the smoke shop owners in this case have been charged might result in life-altering consequences, including but not limited to imprisonment, costly fines and lengthy probation. Louisiana does not take drug crimes lightly. It is vital for anybody facing drug charges in the state to retain the legal counsel and resources of a criminal defense attorney, lacking which it may be exceedingly difficult to avoid the harsh penalties that accompany a drug conviction.

Source: WAFB, “Sheriff: Second drug bust at smoke shop nets 34 lbs. of synthetic marijuana“, Amber Stegall, September 12, 2014