Up in smoke: Richmond tobacco retailers busted for selling marijuana and mushrooms
Over the past three weeks, Richmond Police Department detectives, in partnership with Code Enforcement Officers, conducted a series of unannounced inspections of local tobacco retailers, resulting in a substantial drug seizure. Out of the 13 businesses inspected, four were found to be selling illegal drugs, including marijuana and psychedelic mushrooms, packaged and ready for sale.
During the operations, RPD officers confiscated more than seven pounds of marijuana in various forms, including leaf, powder, and liquid. In addition to the marijuana, authorities seized a significant amount of psychedelic mushrooms, along with mushroom-laced chocolate bars and candy gummies.
Officials said businesses caught selling illegal substances now face possible fines, criminal charges, and administrative action, possibly leading to their closure.
“This is a clear reminder that breaking the law has serious consequences. Our officers and code enforcement unit are committed to ensuring business owners operate within legal boundaries to protect public safety,” Richmond police said. “Whether it’s illegal substances or unlicensed sales, we will continue to hold those who attempt to skirt the law accountable.”
RPD’s coordinated effort aims to prevent illegal drug sales in unlicensed retail spaces in the community.
“To those retailers that think they can get away with illegal activity—don’t risk it,” police said. “We are inspecting and taking action.”
Richmond has struggled to control the proliferation of smoke shops in the city, with some operating without permits.
Soren Hemmila
In April, the Richmond City Council approved a moratorium on new tobacco retailers after an increasing number of smoke shops have opened in the city.
The urgency order, which went into effect immediately at the April 16 meeting, means no new permit, license, or other entitlement for any new smoking lounge, smoke shop, or tobacco retailer within the city would be allowed.
Richmond Code Enforcement Manager Eva Mann said during the moratorium, Code Enforcement created a comprehensive list and map of all tobacco retailers in the city using various data sources.
“Two temporary Code Enforcement Officers were contracted via a consulting firm to assist with inspections and enforcement efforts around tobacco retailers,” Mann said in August. “Additionally, a joint taskforce with city and county personnel is being formed to play a key role in the city’s inspection and enforcement process.”
Soren Hemmila
No additional details on potential arrests or the businesses' names were released.
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