To clamp down on illegal vape sales, Covington, Tennessee authorities recently concluded operation “HIGH STAKES”, resulting in the seizure of numerous "Hemp Derived Cannabinoid" (HDC) products. According to a social media post by the Covington Police Department, this investigation was spurred by concerns over the negative medical effects reported by product users. During the sting operation conducted on Tuesday, seven out of eleven local retailers were compliant, verifying ages before sales. However, four retailers sold HDC vapes to a minor without proper ID checks.
The operation's outcome included citations for the clerks at stores such as TKR Novelty and Accessories and US51 Tobacco Vape Shop LLC, among others, for the sale of an HDC vaporizer containing THC to a minor. A raid at Exotic Stoners also resulted in the discovery of products that tested at 74% Delta-9 THC content, significantly over the state legal limit of 0.3%, according to a press release from the Covington Police Department. Subsequent drug analysis affirmed that various products, including pre-rolled joints and vapes, contained 60% to 70% Delta-9 THC and were duly seized.
Expressing the gravity of the situation, Covington Police Chief Donna Turner stated, as per the Covington Police Department, "This is a wakeup call for adults and parents whose children may be purchasing these products." Turner emphasized the deceptive packaging, which may target younger demographics, and the unregulated nature of these products, potentially endangering children's health and behavior. To raise awareness on this issue, the department is planning educational sessions in collaboration with Tipton Prevents, set to commence in April for Tipton County students, parents, and school staff.
