BRIDGEPORT — Four smoke shop employees were arrested and approximately 50 pounds of THC products were seized following coordinated compliance inspections at four city businesses, police said.
The Bridgeport Police Department’s Narcotic and Vice Division, working with multiple city and state agencies, carried out the inspections to ensure adherence to city and state regulations and protect the community.
Arrests and Seizures
Firas Farid Alawdi, a clerk at Blue Jet Smoker on Fairfield Avenue, was arrested after officers seized 6.3 pounds of THC-containing items and cash. He faces charges of operating a drug factory, possession with intent to sell or dispense narcotics, and possession of a controlled substance.
Arilis Agramonte Dignori, a clerk at Smokers Box on Park Avenue, was arrested after 12.5 pounds of THC products and cash were found. He faces the same charges as Alawdi.
Sri Harsha Kuchi, a clerk at Hollywood Smoke Shop on North Avenue, was arrested after officers seized 11.3 pounds of THC and related cash. He faces charges of operating a drug factory, possession with intent to sell, and possession of a controlled substance.
Ali Fadl Saleh Fadel, a clerk at Star Convenience on Barnum Avenue, was arrested after 20.1 pounds of THC products and cash were recovered. He faces the same charges as the other clerks.
All four were held on $5,000 bonds.
Business Closures
The Connecticut Department of Labor ordered all four businesses to close until further notice. Police confirmed that investigations into similar establishments are ongoing.
“The Bridgeport Police Department, alongside its city and state partners, remains dedicated to upholding the laws of Connecticut and ensuring the safety of our community,” officials said.
