Narcotics Bureau Cracks Down On Oklahoma Stores Selling Paraphernalia

The Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs is cracking down on convenience stores that sell drug paraphernalia disguised as other products.

Agents raided Z & Z convenience store at N.E. 24th and Martin Luther King Boulevard in Oklahoma City Monday morning for selling pipes used to smoke crack cocaine.

3/10/2011 Related Story: Burglar Suffocates Trying To Break Into Z & Z Convenience Store

"This particular store was selling crack pipes disguised as ink pens," said Mark Woodward, OBN spokesperson.

"The so-called pens are glass tubes sold behind and under the counter, priced considerably higher than traditional pens," Mark Woodward said.

The purchase price often includes a piece of steel scouring pad used as a filter when smoking the drug.

Woodward said he hopes the raid sends a strong message to other store owners that sell similar products that violate the state statutes on drug paraphernalia.

"Stores that sell these types of pipes, tubes and filters are deliberately supplying and profiting from individuals intent on smoking crack cocaine," Mark Woodward said. "They know it, and they don't care as long as they are making money.

The agency is focusing on several stores across Oklahoma after receiving tips that the facilities are selling paraphernalia products to known drug users.

Woodward says the store owner and employees selling these glass tube pens are facing misdemeanor charges of Distribution of Drug Paraphernalia. Additional felony charges could be filed as a result of evidence found during the execution of the search warrant.

State Representative Mike Shelton said he plans to introduce legislation next month to strengthen the penalties.