SHELTON, CT — A 27-year-old man was arrested following an investigation into illegal cannabis distribution at a local convenience store.
Essa Almalaiki was taken into custody on April 15 without incident after an arrest warrant was issued.
The Shelton Police Department, in partnership with several state agencies, conducted a compliance inspection at Shelton Convenience LLC on Dec. 1, 2025.
The Connecticut Department of Revenue Services Criminal Investigation Division participated in the operation.
Authorities discovered and seized 256 illegal cannabis-related products, including THC edibles, vape cartridges and cannabis flower, totaling over 4.6 pounds.
The business was not licensed to sell cannabis products.
Zoning regulations explicitly prohibit marijuana sales at that location.
Almalaiki was charged with possession of 1 kilogram or more of cannabis, possession with intent to sell narcotics and interfering with an officer.
He is scheduled to appear in court in May at GA-5.
