COLLINSVILLE, Va. (rbs news now) — A welfare check at a vape shop in Collinsville led to the discovery of suspected marijuana distribution on July 1.

Deputies responded to the Point Tobacco & Vape store at 2854 Virginia Avenue at around 9 a.m. after receiving a call about a man who appeared to be either asleep or unconscious behind the counter.

Sheriff Wayne Davis said deputies found the front door unsecured and, upon entry, observed in plain view a substantial quantity of what is believed to be marijuana along with packaging materials typically used for drug distribution.

The man, later determined to be an employee, was awake but unable to speak English.

He identified himself as being from Yemen and initially could not produce documentation of lawful status.

Sheriff Davis said Immigration and Customs Enforcement was contacted but later confirmed the individual is lawfully present in the U.S.

A search warrant was executed at the store, during which investigators seized additional suspected marijuana products and discovered evidence that people had been living in the commercial space.

Davis also confirmed the business was operating without a valid Henry County business license.

Sheriff Davis said that the marijuana was plainly visible and appeared to be part of a distribution operation, which remains illegal in Virginia despite decriminalization for personal possession.

“It was patently obvious this was not just for personal use,” Davis said. “Selling marijuana in a commercial setting is still a felony under Virginia law.”

The sheriff also expressed concern over the growing number of tobacco and vape shops in the area.

“We’ve seen an explosion of these stores, and unfortunately, many of them bring problems,” Davis said.

He referenced a recent overnight larceny at the same location and a nearby robbery involving a juvenile suspect as examples of the increasing strain these businesses can place on resources.

The suspected marijuana has been sent to the Virginia Department of Forensic Science for analysis.

The investigation is ongoing, and anyone with information is asked to contact the Henry County Sheriff’s Office at 276-638-8751 or through Crimestoppers at 276-632-7463.

Rewards of up to $2,500 are available based on the quality of information provided.

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