Vape shop owner in James City County, Williamsburg arrested with synthetic opioids, firearms, and cash

A search warrant and seizure were carried out at two vape shops in Williamsburg, Virginia, as well as the owner’s home in James City County. Investigators found pounds of synthetic opioids, $20,000 in cash, and seven guns during the search. The search warrants were carried out at Paradise Tobacco and Vape and Alpha Smoke Shop in Williamsburg. A third search warrant was also executed at the suspect’s home in James City County, leading to the seizure of pounds of synthetic opioids, marijuana, psilocybin bars, guns, and cash.

The items seized during the search warrant included tianeptine, also known as “gas station heroin,” pounds of marijuana, around 100 psilocybin bars, three AR-15 style rifles, and approximately $20,000 in cash. The owner of the tobacco and vape shops, 29-year-old Islam Sbaih, was arrested and charged with multiple felonies, including possession with intent to distribute a schedule I or II substance, possession with intent to distribute up to 5 pounds of marijuana, and possession of a firearm while committing narcotics violations. The investigation into the incident is ongoing as police work to gather more information.

Investigators with the Williamsburg Police Department are leading the investigation into the illegal activities at the targeted vape shops and the owner’s home in James City County. The search warrants were carried out simultaneously at the two vape shops, leading to the discovery of significant amounts of illegal substances, firearms, and cash. The seized items, such as synthetic opioids, marijuana, and psilocybin bars, suggest that the owner of the shops was involved in distributing illegal substances in the area.

The discovery of pounds of synthetic opioids, seven guns, and thousands of dollars in cash highlights the severity of the situation in Williamsburg. The presence of tianeptine, a substance known as “gas station heroin,” raises concerns about the distribution and use of dangerous drugs in the community. Following the arrest of the owner, Islam Sbaih, on multiple felony charges, police are urging anyone with information related to the case to come forward and assist in the ongoing investigation.

The search warrant and seizure at the vape shops in Williamsburg and the suspect’s home in James City County shed light on the illegal activities that were taking place in the area. The significant amount of illegal substances, firearms, and cash found during the search point to a larger operation involving the distribution of drugs and other illegal activities. The arrest of the owner, Islam Sbaih, on multiple felony charges underscores the seriousness of the situation, and investigators are continuing to gather evidence to further the case. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Investigator Steve Roberts at the Williamsburg Police Department.