Abilene police say 100+ student cases involved THC, nicotine vapes

ABILENE, Texas (KTAB/KRBC) – The Abilene Police Department (APD) says its ongoing THC investigation stems from more than 100 incidents of students bringing THC and nicotine vape products onto local campuses.

APD released the following statement after launching an investigation targeting businesses suspected of selling illegal narcotics and drug paraphernalia within city limits. In August, police executed search warrants at multiple smoke shops, seizing 17 pounds of marijuana, hundreds of THC vapes, and more from just one store.

Abilene, Texas – The Abilene Police Department is conducting an ongoing investigation into the illegal sale of THC-containing vape products at local businesses. This investigation began after a troubling increase in the number of vape pens, many containing tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), being brought onto our middle and high school campuses.

During the 2024–2025 school year, our schools documented more than 100 incidents involving students in possession of nicotine and THC vape products. In over 50 of these cases, laboratory testing confirmed the presence of THC, resulting in felony charges and referrals to the Juvenile Detention Center. In one case, a student became so impaired that they were unable to recall their location, highlighting the very real dangers these substances pose to youth.

Our school resource officers, recognizing the seriousness of the issue, began investigating local businesses suspected of selling these products. Testing—both in the field and through independent laboratories—confirmed that all products seized exceeded the legal threshold of 0.3% Delta-9 THC established under the 2018 Farm Bill and the Texas Health and Safety Code, Section 481. These findings make the products illegal under state law.

While much public attention has been focused on zoning violations connected to these businesses, that concern is secondary to the fact that these products are illegal, harmful, and are finding their way into the hands of our children. Compliance letters were issued to businesses, giving them thirty days to bring their operations in line with Texas law. Approximately half of the businesses complied voluntarily.

The Abilene Police Department has a responsibility to enforce state law and to protect the health and safety of this community, especially our youth. We will continue to pursue enforcement against businesses that fail to comply with the law, with the goal of reducing access to illegal THC products and keeping our schools safe.

Sent on behalf of the Abilene Police Department Administration

Respectfully,

Rick Tomlin

Public Information Office

However, local CBD business House of Healing has pushed back, calling the raid unjust. In addition, Associate Municipal Judge for the City of Abilene and attorney Chaile Allen resigned from her position, citing what she described as a constitutional violation committed by Abilene Police during the raid as a major reason behind her decision.