KENTUCKY — Two men have been arrested following a months-long investigation into a marijuana trafficking operation at a Middlesboro smoke shop, according to the Bell County Sheriff’s Department.
Deputies executed a search warrant on Friday, June 20, at the Happy Smoke Shop, located in the Middlesboro Crossing Shopping Center.
The investigation, which involved multiple agencies, was launched after numerous tips and evidence linked the business to suspected marijuana distribution.
Authorities say undercover officers conducted controlled purchases and observed the store failing to check IDs, potentially allowing juveniles to access controlled substances.
During the search, deputies recovered a large quantity of marijuana, drug paraphernalia, and cash believed to be proceeds from drug trafficking.
Arrested were 39-year-old Amer Allabani and 22-year-old Jared Cabrera, both of Galax, Virginia.
They were booked into the Bell County Detention Center and charged with trafficking in marijuana (8 ounces to 5 pounds) – first offense, and acquiring property from income related to drug trafficking.
Agencies assisting in the operation included DESI East, the Knox County Sheriff’s Department, Pineville Police Department, and the U.S. Marshals Service.
Deputy Hunter Luttrell is leading the investigation, and authorities say additional charges may be filed.
