Myrtle Beach, September 2, 2025
News Summary
Myrtle Beach police are investigating local smoke shops suspected of selling illegal substances disguised as food and candy. Five search warrants were executed, including at A&B Tobacco & Vape. Health concerns are rising due to these products, which have been linked to overdoses and mental health issues, especially as students prepare to return to school. The police department urges community vigilance and reporting of suspicious activities to ensure safety.
Myrtle Beach
Myrtle Beach police are conducting an investigation into local smoke shops suspected of selling illegal substances disguised as food and candy items. On Thursday, authorities executed five search warrants across various vape and smoke shops in the area. Though most of the shops have not been publicly named, A&B Tobacco & Vape located at 1258 3rd Ave. S. was confirmed to be among those searched.
The illegal substances being investigated include products that mimic edibles, such as gummies and candy, and have been linked to serious health issues, including overdoses, suicides, and significant mental health repercussions. This urgent investigation comes as students prepare to return to school for the new academic year, highlighting the community’s emphasis on safeguarding youth against harmful products.
Community Safety Concerns
School officer Mark Bechdel has raised awareness about the risks associated with easy access to these illegal consumables, reiterating the necessity for students and their families to be vigilant. The Myrtle Beach Police Department is calling on the community to report any suspicious activities related to the sale of these dangerous edibles.
Officials have expressed particular concern regarding the potential impact of these substances on local schools and the larger community. They remain focused on preventing the infiltration of such products within areas frequented by young individuals.
Local Business Reaction
Merchants in the area are reacting to the raids with mixed feelings. Tuvia Wilkes, a local business owner, has confirmed that at least one of his vape shops was included in the search operation, although he maintains that he does not sell any illegal products. Wilkes emphasized that CBD and THC products can be sold legally within South Carolina, as long as they comply with specific THC level guidelines.
However, some local business operators are skeptical regarding the motivations underpinning the raids. They have suggested that political agendas may be influencing the focus on crime prevention efforts in the area, raising questions about the broader implications of such investigations.
Community Engagement and Reporting
The Myrtle Beach Police Department urges local residents to stay alert and proactive in reporting any suspicious sales or products that may not follow legal standards. This call to action aims to enhance community safety and minimize the risks associated with the sale of dangerous substances disguised as everyday food items.
Conclusion
The investigation remains ongoing as police work to uncover the extent of the issue and ensure the safety of the Myrtle Beach community. Authorities are poised to take further action should they uncover evidence supporting the sale of illegal products that pose a danger to residents, especially youth heading back to school.
FAQ
What substances are Myrtle Beach police investigating?
Police are investigating illegal substances that are disguised as edible candies and snacks, which have been linked to overdoses and other serious health issues.
How many smoke shops were raided?
On Thursday, authorities executed search warrants at five smoke and vape shops in Myrtle Beach.
What should community members do if they suspect illegal sales?
The Myrtle Beach Police Department encourages residents to report any suspicious activity to help keep the community safe.
Chart of Key Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Investigation Focus | Smoke shops suspected of selling illegal substances disguised as candies. |
| Number of Raids | Five vape and smoke shops searched. |
| Health Risks | Link to overdoses, suicides, and mental health issues. |
| Community Involvement | Residents urged to report suspicious activities. |
| Business Owner Response | Mixed feelings on the validity and motivation behind the raids. |
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Additional Resources
- WPDE News
- Wikipedia: Myrtle Beach
- WBTW News
- Google Search: Myrtle Beach smoke shops
- Post and Courier
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Myrtle Beach
- WMBF News
- Google News: Myrtle Beach police raids
Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
