A Butner store owner is facing felony charges after he allegedly sold vapes and vape cartridges with an illegal amount of THC to middle school students.

Granville County and Butner schools officials called investigators with the North Carolina Alcohol Law Enforcement Division (ALE) after THC vape cartridges were found on the campus of Butner-Stem Middle School. The school is located across the street from Butner Tobacco and Vape on Central Avenue.

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School officials believe students from the middle school bought vapes and vape cartridges from the store. ALE agents determined that Delta9 Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) products sold at the store contained more than 0.3 % THC, making the products illegal to possess and sell.   

“Law enforcement continues to have growing and valid concerns about these illegal products,” said ALE Director Bryan House. “Our goal is to keep our communities safe by preventing harmful products from reaching the public—especially our youth.” 

Abdulghani Abdo Mohamed Alashmaly, 36, is the owner of Butner Tobacco and Vape. He was charged with:

  • possession with intent to sell/deliver marijuana
    • possession with intent to manufacture/sell/deliver a schedule I controlled substance
      • manufacturing/selling/delivering/possessing controlled substances within 1,000 feet of a school
        • possession of marijuana paraphernaila
          • possession of drug paraphernalia
            • maintaining a vehicle/dwelling/place for controlled substances

              “Granville County Public Schools deeply appreciates the dedication and professionalism of our local and state law enforcement officers. Their partnership is vital to ensuring the safety and well-being of our students. Our recent collaboration to combat the spread of illegal vape and THC products is especially critical. Those who peddle this poison to our children must be held accountable. We will continue sharing information from our schools to safeguard our students and communities. Let it be clear, our district stands firmly with law enforcement to protect our children,” said Granville County Public Schools Superintendent, Dr. Stan Winborne.