Responding to community complaints, the Oakland Police Department's Alcohol Beverage Action Team, in conjunction with the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration, raided an unlicensed smoke shop on Webster Street this month, uncovering a cache of illegal items. The October 16 operation resulted in the seizure of psilocybin mushrooms, various cannabis products, flavored tobacco, and a significant amount of untaxed tobacco from out of state. Officers also confiscated two firearms and over $4,800 in cash from the establishment, according to a social media post from the Oakland Police Department.
Officials disclosed that the business lacked the proper licensing and permits for the sale of tobacco and cannabis products. Although no arrests were made at the time of the raid, the evidence gathered has been sent to the Alameda County District Attorney's Office for further examination. The District Attorney's office will consider civil charges and potential eviction for the the shop's proprietors.
The Oakland Police Department showed gratitude for the community's role in bringing the unlicensed operation to their attention. Acknowledging the joint effort, the department stated, "The OPD ABAT unit appreciates the support of our community members and the collaboration of its investigative partners, including CDTFA, during the operation." This collaboration underscores Oakland's ongoing commitment to curbing illegal sales of tobacco and cannabis.
