January 9, 2026 What was supposed to be a neighborhood shop turned out to be a gateway to a much darker reality. After weeks of whispers and desperate complaints from local parents, the Sheriff’s Joint Compliance Task Force finally kicked in the doors—and what they found has the community reeling.

The Psychedelic Shocker

This wasn't just about a few illegal joints. Officers executing the search warrant discovered 11 sealed bags emblazoned with psychedelic imagery. Inside wasn’t just "vegetative substance"—it was confirmed to be psilocybin and psilocin, the potent psychoactive compounds that trigger intense hallucinations.

The find confirms the neighborhood's worst fears: "Magic mushrooms" were being moved right under their noses.

17 Pounds of Illicit "Candy"

The sheer volume of the haul suggests a high-traffic operation. Beyond the hallucinogens, the Sheriff’s Office hauled out a massive 17-pound mountain of contraband, including:

• 12 Pounds of illegal cannabis flower.

• 4 Pounds of potent THC edibles.

• 1 Pound of concentrated THC vape products.

The most disturbing part? The investigation was sparked by tips alleging the shop was targeting young people, peddling these unregulated and dangerous products to minors.

A Desperate Escape Attempt

The raid didn't go quietly. As uniformed officers swarmed the entrance, the shop’s operator, Francis, allegedly chose to fight rather than fold. According to court records, Francis attempted to charge through the line of officers to escape.

The scene turned physical as he reportedly flailed his arms, tensed his body, and refused to be handcuffed in a frantic bid to avoid the inevitable. He now faces a laundry list of charges, including:

• Two counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance

• Resisting Arrest

• Obstruction of Governmental Administration

Back on the Streets

Despite the gravity of the seizure and the allegations of selling to kids, Francis pleaded not guilty during his arraignment in St. George and was released on his own recognizance.

As he walks free pending his next court date, the community is left wondering: how many more of these "smoke and mirrors" businesses are hiding hallucinogens behind their counters?