More than 120 kg marijuana, 172 sites involved in criminal activity in vape shop crackdown: Youngkin

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- Gov. Glenn Youngkin announced Virginia State Police found more than 120 kilograms of marijuana and more than 170 sites involved in criminal activity, as part of a statewide vape shop crackdown.

On Thursday, Oct. 30, Youngkin announced a large-scale investigation from "Operation Magic Dragon" led by state police targeting criminal activity in vape and e-cigarette shops across the state.

“When illegal drugs, firearms, and organized criminal activity infiltrate retail businesses, frequented by the public—including youth—Virginia will respond with decisive enforcement and unwavering accountability. The results of Operation Magic Dragon demonstrate the exceptional work of our Virginia State Police special agents and their steadfast commitment to keeping our communities safe," Youngkin said. "I want to thank every law enforcement professional who was part of this successful mission to remove illegal drugs from vape shops across Virginia. When we empower law enforcement, Virginia is safer.”

According to an Oct. 30 release, the investigation -- requested by Youngkin -- comes after a significant increase in criminal activity in the state, with multiple localities across Central Virginia having tried to regulate existing vape shops, including Richmond, Brunswick and Hanover.

Virginia State Police initiated a long-term investigation into vape shops in western Virginia, finding illegal drug activity and illegal weapons offenses.

Per the governor's office, the investigation found the following: 

• Marijuana: 128.9 kilograms (valued at $1,289,740) 
• Marijuana concentrate: 4.2 kilograms (valued at $43,810)
• THC vape cartridges: 4.3 kilograms (valued at $173,440)
• THC edibles: 18 kilograms (valued at $181,200)
• Cocaine: 73 grams (valued at $8,322)
• Illegal Firearms: 21 (valued at $10,500)

Youngkin's office said during one week in September, state police aimed to "disrupt and dismantle criminal networks tied to vape retail operations throughout the Commonwealth," as part of "Operation Magic Dragon." They specifically noted these illegal vapes laced with marijuana were targeting youth.

This led to state police identifying 172 places across Virginia involved in criminal activity.

State police is continuing its investigative efforts under "Operation Magic Dragon."