Riverside Police Department Conducts Raid on Downtown Smoke Shop Following Complaints
The Riverside Police Department’s Vice Unit, in conjunction with the Downtown Entertainment District (DED) Team, executed a search warrant at DTOWN Smoke Shop on Thursday, May 9th, 2024, following a series of complaints regarding alleged illicit activities. Situated in the 3400 block of University Avenue in the Downtown area of Riverside, the smoke shop had been under investigation for suspected illegal narcotics sales, underage tobacco transactions, and illicit gambling.
Upon thorough investigation, officers concluded that the establishment was indeed facilitating illegal gambling, which was adversely impacting neighboring businesses. Subsequently, a search warrant was secured, leading to the discovery of evidence substantiating the allegations of illegal gambling and narcotics-related activities.
During the operation, a store employee was apprehended in possession of suspected cocaine and a loaded firearm. The individual was subsequently arrested and booked into the Robert Presley Detention Center on charges of possession of a controlled substance with intent to sell and weapons violations.
In addition to the police action, agents from the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration launched an investigation into potential violations related to the sale and use of tobacco, alcohol, and cannabis products at the establishment.
The Vice Unit of the Riverside Police Department specializes in investigations concerning human trafficking, prostitution, and gambling, as well as criminal activities and municipal code infractions associated with various establishments, including alcohol and tobacco outlets, massage parlors, billiard halls, taxi services, and psychic services.
Individuals with pertinent information regarding this case or other areas under the purview of the Vice Unit are encouraged to contact them via email at RPDVice@RiversideCA.gov. Alternatively, those wishing to remain anonymous can utilize the Riverside Police Department’s “Atlas 1” mobile app to submit information.
