Over 250 Illegal Cannabis Products Seized During Inspection At Shelton Convenience Store: Police

SHELTON, CT — A man was arrested this week after more than 250 illegal cannabis-related products were seized during an inspection at a Shelton convenience store late last year, according to the Shelton Police Department.

In a news release posted to Facebook, police said the department conducted a compliance inspection at Shelton Convenience LLC on Dec. 1, 2025, in partnership with several state agencies.

According to police, the operation included the Connecticut Department of Revenue Services Criminal Investigation Division, "which investigates tax violations and conducts inspections of businesses selling tobacco products under Connecticut law."

During the inspection, authorities discovered and seized 256 illegal cannabis-related products, including THC edibles, vape cartridges and cannabis flower, totaling over 4.6 pounds, according to police.

According to police, the business was not licensed to sell cannabis products and "zoning regulations explicitly prohibit marijuana sales at that location."

An arrest warrant was issued for Essa Almalaiki, 27, after an extensive investigation, police said.

Almalaiki was arrested Wednesday and charged with possession of 1 kilogram or more of cannabis, possession with intent to sell narcotics and interfering with an officer, police said.

He is scheduled to appear in court next month, according to police.