TAMPA, Fla. – A month-long investigation targeting the illegal sale of synthetic cannabinoids, commonly known as “Spice,” culminated in a massive operation on Thursday, November 6, 2025, leading to multiple arrests and the seizure of significant quantities of illegal drugs and cash from seven Tampa convenience stores.
Deputies and detectives executed simultaneous search warrants in a unified effort to disrupt the sale of these dangerous substances, which authorities say had turned the businesses into “criminal enterprises.” The investigation focused on stores allegedly selling “Spice” but uncovered a broader range of illegal drugs being sold from behind the counters.
As a result of the operation, fourteen individuals were arrested.
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The charges levied range from Possession and Delivery of a Controlled Substance and Trafficking in Illegal Drugs to Delivery of a Controlled Substance within 1,000 feet of a Child Care or School.
Seizures and Locations
In addition to over $40,000 in cash, detectives seized a dangerous stockpile of illicit substances, including:
- Synthetic Cannabinoids (Spice)
- THC Gummies
- Sativa Resin
- Cocaine
- Mushrooms
- Cannabis (THC)
The seven convenience stores targeted in the operation are:
- Silver Dollar Foods, 4330 North 40th Street Avenue
- Sunset Market and Deli, 18440 Livingston Avenue
- Discount Food Mart, 1709 East Bearss Avenue
- Aladdin Market, 2202 East Bearss Avenue
- Quick Mart Citgo, 701 East Bearss Avenue
- Marathon, 309 East Fletcher Avenue
- Food Town Supermarket, 1904 East 131st Avenue
“When convenience stores turn into criminal enterprises, selling poison instead of products, you will be found, shut down, and held fully accountable,” said Sheriff Chronister. “Our deputies will continue to dismantle every operation that prioritizes profit over the safety of Hillsborough County’s citizens.”
Authorities confirmed that this remains an active investigation.
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