WSLCB investigation finds illegal marijuana sales at White Center’s “The Smoke Shop”

The retail store is a licensed tobacco and vapor store

OLYMPIA – During a recent undercover investigation, Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board (WSLCB) officers purchased illegal marijuana from a clerk at “The Smoke Shop,” a state licensed tobacco and vapor products retailer located at 9823 16th Ave SW in White Center. Under state law, marijuana may only be sold from a licensed marijuana retail store.

A WSLCB enforcement officer entered the store Tuesday and made an undercover buy from a clerk. The officer paid $50.00 for nine grams of flower. After the purchase, the officer obtained a search warrant for the Smoke Shop. With the assistance of the King County Sheriff’s Office, WSLCB enforcement officers executed the search warrant Wednesday afternoon. The officers located over 13 pounds of marijuana flower, concentrates and pre-rolled joints. The retail value of the product was estimated at over $50,000.

The clerk was arrested by LCB officers and booked into the King County jail. The marijuana, a 12-gauge shotgun, and approximately $2,700 were seized as evidence. The shotgun was located in a backroom safe with the marijuana and cash. During the operation, officers also contacted a 19-year-old minor who purchased marijuana from the store.

Officers will be recommending felony charges for Unlawful Possession and Distribution of a Controlled Substance (RCW 69.50.401). The WSLCB will also be serving a violation to The Smoke Shop for operating the tobacco and vapor licensed business in violation of chapter 69.50 RCW (RCW 70.155.150). The penalty of the AVN is revocation of both the tobacco and vapor product licenses.

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