On March 20, 2025, the North Carolina Alcohol Law Enforcement Division (ALE) and Butner Public Safety concluded an investigation into Butner Tobacco and Vape at 407 Central Avenue, Butner. The owner, Abdulghani Abdo Mohamed Alashmaly, was charged with several criminal offenses, including five felonies.
The investigation began after ALE received reports from Butner Public Safety and the Granville County Public Schools Safety Director that students from Butner-Stem Middle School had bought THC vapes and cartridges from the store. These products were also found on the school campus. The store is located near the middle school.
During the investigation, ALE agents determined that Delta9 Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) products sold by the store contained more than 0.3% THC, which is illegal to possess and sell.
“Granville County Public Schools deeply appreciates the dedication and professionalism of our local and state law enforcement officers. Their partnership is vital to ensuring the safety and well-being of our students. Our recent collaboration to combat the spread of illegal vape and THC products is especially critical. Those who peddle this poison to our children must be held accountable. We will continue sharing information from our schools to safeguard our students and communities. Let it be clear, our district stands firmly with law enforcement to protect our children,” said Granville County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Stan Winborne.
Abdulghani Abdo Mohamed Alashmaly, 36, of Kenansville faces charges including:
– Felony-Possession with Intent to Sell/Deliver Marijuana.
– Felony-Possession with Intent to Manufacture/Sell/Deliver Schedule I Controlled Substance.
– Felony-Manufacture/Sell/Deliver/Possess Controlled Substances within 1000 feet of a school (two counts).
– Misdemeanor-Possess Marijuana Paraphernalia.
– Misdemeanor-Possess Drug Paraphernalia.
– Felony-Maintain Vehicle/Dwelling/Place Controlled Substances.
“Law enforcement continues to have growing and valid concerns about these illegal products,” said ALE Director Bryan House. “Our goal is to keep our communities safe by preventing harmful products from reaching the public—especially our youth.”
ALE’s mission includes enhancing community safety by addressing criminal activity in alcohol establishments across North Carolina.
