‘Unlawful handling of hemp’ at local convenience stores
J.K. Patel. PHOTO COURTESY OF DCDC
Darlington County sheriff’s deputies have charged the proprietors of two convenience stores in the county on counts related to “unlawful handling of hemp” at their stores.
After deputies executed search warrants at several local convenience stores between March 30 and April 1, the Darlington County Sheriff’s Office said in a statement, two men were charged in connection with violating the Hemp Farming Act.
Arrested were Gameel Salha Alsaidi, owner of 641 Tobacco and Vape Shop at 641 Weaver St., Darlington, and J.K. Patel, proprietor of an unnamed store in the Hartsville area, according to the DCSO. Alsaidi is accused of “handling raw hemp without a license.” Patel is accused of “unlawful handling of hemp” and illegally selling the prescription drug Viagra in his store. Both have been released from jail on personal-recognizance bonds. A booking photo of Alsaidi was not available.
“This operation was to inform local store owners and bring them into compliance” with laws involved in selling and handling hemp, the DCSO said.
