TOLEDO, OH (Toledo News Now) -
Ohio Investigative Unit agents seized more than 5,700 packages of synthetic cannabinoids and $51,000 cash from a Toledo convenient store after executing a search warrant at the premise last week.
Synthetic cannabinoids are known to cause comas, overdoses and even deaths.
Neighbors say they're glad these dangerous drugs have been seized.
"That stuff right there will mess up your brain. It will take you to a whole 'nother level," said Jaceppi McNeal.
Agents have been investigating Omar of Ohio, Inc., also known as Airport Stop on 3326 Airport Highway, since late summer after receiving complaints of possible drug violations taking place at the liquor permit premise. People who live nearby say they had no clue the employees were selling more than groceries and lottery tickets.
"They had no idea this was coming," said Agent Raymond Rodriguez with the Ohio Investigative Unit. "It feels good to get this stuff off the streets, get out of people's hands, because it's dangerous. They have dangerous effects on people. So knowing that we're helping make the city of Toledo safer, it's a pretty good - is a real good feeling."
The liquor permit was cited with five counts each of drug possession and drug paraphernalia possession; four counts of drug sales; and three counts of drug paraphernalia sales.
Possible criminal charges will be presented to the Lucas County Prosecutor's Office for consideration.
Administrative charges will be presented to the Ohio Liquor Control Commission for their consideration, as well. The commission has the authority to issue penalties against the liquor permit, including possible fines, suspensions or revocation.
However, it could be a while before charges are filed because all the evidence still needs to be analyzed. It then could be months before anyone faces a judge.
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