NORTH CAROLINA — Thousands of products were seized and multiple charges were filed during a crackdown on smoke shops in Union County, according to the Monroe Police Department.
Police said the multi-week operation targeted eight smoke shops in Monroe and resulted in the confiscation of about 3,500 pieces of evidence along with 12 criminal charges.
According to investigators, the charges included possession with intent to sell and deliver marijuana, counterfeit and trademark violations, selling alcohol without a permit and unlawfully living on business premises.
Authorities have not identified the smoke shops involved in the operation.
Police said the crackdown also aimed to raise awareness among parents about products marketed toward children.
Investigators said officers found vaping devices concealed inside items such as Monster energy drink cans, along with products packaged using bright colors, cartoon characters and candy-style branding designed to appeal to younger consumers.
“Our goal is not simply enforcement, but education and prevention,” Monroe Police Chief Rhett Bolen said in a statement. “We want parents and guardians to understand how these products are being marketed and why awareness is so important.”
The investigation involved multiple agencies and remains ongoing, according to police.
