WILLIAMSBURG — Williamsburg Police Investigators executed search warrants at two tobacco and vape shops Wednesday morning, leading to a third search warrant at a home in the 900 block of Pheasant Run in James City County and the arrest of a 29-year-old man.
According to police, investigators executed search warrants at Paradise Tobacco & Vape, located at 1457 Richmond Road, and Alpha Smoke Shop, located at 226 Monticello Ave, at approximately 11 a.m. on March 27, and officials said the initial two search warrants led to a third search warrant at a James City County subject’s home.
Investigators seized pounds of synthetic opioids, specifically tianeptine commonly referred to as “Gas Station Heroin,” pounds of marijuana in various forms, approximately 100 psilocybin bars, seven firearms, including three AR-15 style rifles, and approximately $20,000 in U.S. currency, according to officials.
The business owner, 29-year-old Islam Sbaih, was on the scene at one of the businesses and was arrested and charged with one felony count of possession with intent to distribute a schedule I or II substance, one felony count of possession with intent to distribute up to 5 pounds of marijuana, and two felony counts of possession of a firearm while committing the previously stated narcotics violations, police said.
The investigation remains ongoing. Police are asking anyone with information about this network to contact Inv. Steve Roberts at 757-220-2331. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through Peninsula Crime Stoppers by phone at 888-LOCK-U-UP or online. Those with information leading to an arrest may be eligible for a cash reward up to $1,500.
Officials thanked the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS), James City County Police Department and federal partners for their assistance.
