In a significant crackdown on illegal activities, the City of Miami Police Department seized approximately 56 pounds of cannabis and uncovered illicit gambling operations during a raid at El Rincón Market & Smoke Shop in Little Havana. The operation, conducted in late February, also led to the arrests of the store manager and a 15-year-old minor.
The investigation into the establishment began months earlier following a stabbing incident near the premises. Undercover officers subsequently conducted controlled purchases of cannabis from the store. Laboratory analysis of the products obtained revealed THC levels ranging from 7% to 22%, exceeding the legal threshold for hemp-derived products in Florida.
During the raid, authorities discovered vacuum-sealed bags of cannabis near the store’s office and a concealed room housing six gambling machines. Additionally, cannabis-infused edibles, a firearm, ammunition, and empty alcohol bottles were found on the premises.
The store manager, 25-year-old Lisyane Flores, was arrested and charged with cannabis trafficking, possession of a gambling device, and contributing to the delinquency of a minor. A judge set her bond at $8,500. The 15-year-old, identified as a student at the nearby Green Springs High School, faces charges of cannabis possession with intent to sell near a school.
Flores’ attorney, Lawrence Hashish, contends that the cannabis products sold were legal THC-A, which is permitted under Florida law if the total THC content does not exceed 0.3%. He emphasized that the products were properly packaged and accompanied by certificates of authenticity.
However, police maintain that not all seized items were commercially packaged, and the presence of vacuum-sealed bags and a hidden gambling room suggests illicit activity. Detective Matthew Martinez stated, “The THC levels came back higher. The amount they came back at 7% and 22%.”
The proximity of the smoke shop to Green Springs High School has raised concerns among educators and parents. Principal Aymee Leyva expressed gratitude to law enforcement for their swift action, stating, “We are grateful to local law enforcement for their swift response and for their continued efforts in ensuring that our surrounding neighborhood remains a safe and supportive environment for learning.”
This case underscores the ongoing challenges in regulating cannabis products and preventing illegal gambling operations in the community. Authorities continue to investigate and have not ruled out additional arrests.