RANDOLPH COUNTY, WV (LOOTPRESS) – A large-scale law enforcement operation led by the Mountain Region Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force resulted in the execution of search warrants at five tobacco and vape shops across Randolph and Upshur Counties on Thursday, June 5.

The coordinated effort was in response to numerous complaints that minors under 18 and individuals under the age of 21 were able to purchase Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC products, along with other banned or illegal substances, from these stores.

The operation included officers from the Buckhannon and Elkins Police Departments; Barbour, Lewis, Randolph, and Upshur County Sheriff’s Departments; the West Virginia State Police; and federal agents from the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).

Following the searches, law enforcement seized approximately 500 pounds of illegal and banned products, with an estimated street value of $500,000, along with a substantial amount of cash.

Officials stated that the investigation is ongoing and that arrests are expected.

The Drug Task Force Commander, along with department leadership, thanked all participating agencies and officers for their efforts in what they described as a successful operation.