The Oakland Police Department (OPD) Alcohol Beverage Action Team (ABAT) and the City of Oakland Code Compliance conducted a site visit and store inspection on an unlicensed business in the 1800 block of 14th Avenue on September 20, 2024.
During the inspection, officers seized large quantities of prohibited-flavored tobacco products, including unlawfully imported, non-taxed cigarettes. Officers also confiscated multiple Psilocybin-infused candy bars and a usable quantity of khat, a controlled substance containing cathinone (a Schedule I drug under the Controlled Substances Act).
While no arrests were made, the case was forwarded to the Alameda County District Attorney’s office for further action, including civil charges and potential eviction.
OPD will continue to focus on educating store owners about the serious consequences associated with selling unlawful flavored tobacco products under the legal age of 21. The special enforcement provides an opportunity to keep the youth in our communities safe while holding smoke shops and business owners accountable for harmful and illegal activity.
OPD remains committed to community safety and building trust with residents. We encourage community members to continue reporting any suspicious or illegal activities regarding sales of tobacco products and sales to minors in Oakland to our ABAT Complaint Hotline at (510) 777-8677.