Following an undercover investigation, a search warrant netted a cache of synthetic drugs and drug paraphernalia from a LaVergne store on February 8th. Police seized 108 packs of 7H, a type of synthetic marijuana; 163 pieces of drug supplies including pipes, bongs, scales, and grinders; and $1775 in cash from Mark Market, located at 3004 W. Nir Shreibman Blvd.

Mark Market owner Beshoui Shenouda and clerk Rayek Tawardrous were issued misdemeanor citations to appear in General Sessions Court on March 28th.

“Narcotics Officer Ty McGowan worked with our Criminal Investigation Division, Crime Suppression Unit, and the National Guard Counter-Drug Task Force to remove these drugs,” said Police Chief Mike Walker. “Synthetic drug use is a growing problem inTennessee, especially with teens. They can be deadly to anyone who uses them.  I’m glad to see the State Legislature is looking at changing the manufacture and sale of these drugs to a felony rather than a misdemeanor.”

In December, the TBI served 89 misdemeanor complaints to 40 individuals in Operation Synful Smoke. The charges ranged from possession of synthetic cannabinoids to possession with the intent to sell synthetic methcathinones.  The synthetic drugs can cause severe physical and psychological reactions and even death.