The co-owner of a Gainesville tobacco and vape store was arrested Monday on several charges related to the illegal sale of drugs at his store.
The Hall County Sheriff's Office said in a press release Hirenkumar Patel, 43, of Buford, co-owns the Discount Tobacco Depot on Shallowford Road in Gainesville. Investigators arrested Patel after executing a search warrant at the store located in a strip mall at 350 Shallowford Road.
The investigation began on Sept. 8 after authorities received a complaint about illegal drug sales at the business.
During Monday's search, investigators seized about 2,100 vials of suspected synthetic cannabinoid vaping liquid. The containers were packaged as Black Diamond hemp oil and marked to sell for $80 to $120 per vial. Investigators also seized a quantity of the prescription drug sildenafil, commonly known as Viagra. Patel had possession of approximately 60 tablets, cut for individual sale from blister packs.
"Based on how the items were priced in the store, the combined value of the drugs is approximately $225,000," the press release said.
Investigators also seized about $12,000 cash and a handgun.
Patel was charged with possession of a Schedule 1 drug with intent to distribute, possession of a Schedule 1 drug and possession of dangerous drugs. No one else faces charges in the case.
Patel was booked into the Hall County Jail following his arrest and was released Wednesday afternoon on a $3,900 bond.
The Special Investigations Unit is continuing with its investigation.
