'Operation Dirty Laundry' nets drug, gambling-related arrests in Graham County – WLOS
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by Dean Hensley
ROBBINSVILLE, N.C. (WLOS) — A major drug bust happened recently in Graham County and involved several businesses, including 30 vape shops in the area, according to the Graham County Sheriff's Office.
The sheriff's office said its "Operation Dirty Laundry" was an 11-month undercover investigation that involved several agencies.
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One of the targets of the investigation was Ayad Radwan Alsalme, who was arrested on Nov. 23 by the Graham County Sheriff's Office, according to a news release. His charges were sell and deliver marijuana, possession with intent to sell manufacture and distribute marijuana and maintain vehicle/dwelling place for controlled substance.
The sheriff's office said Alsalme was released on a $750,000 bond.
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The operation began with tips about illegal drug and and gambling activity in several businesses in and around Robbinsville, including The Greener Side Dispensary and Z's Tobacco and Vape. The sheriff's office says it seized $200,000 cash, as well as 100 pounds of marijuana and 30 pounds of schedule 1 drugs, including meth, fentanyl and illegal mushrooms.
Deputies said they also seized 13 illegal gambling machines. Investigators said they are targeting more than 38 people for charges in the case.
The sheriff's office said this is an ongoing investigation and more charges could be forthcoming.
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