OKALOOSA COUNTY, Fla. — Law enforcement seized 855 illegal vaping devices in Okaloosa County during what officials described as the largest contraband vape seizure in Florida history, Attorney General James Uthmeier announced.
Niceville.com Community Partner
According to the Office of the Attorney General, the seizures were part of a coordinated statewide Vape Task Force effort targeting vape retailers reportedly selling products that violate Florida law and allegedly pose risks to consumers and minors.
“These businesses are knowingly selling illegal products that are designed to attract children and evade Florida law,” said Attorney General James Uthmeier.
“This record-breaking seizure sends a clear message: if you profit off addiction, deception, and dangerous substances, we will find you and shut you down.”
Niceville.com Community Partner
Across four enforcement operations, authorities reportedly seized 2,183 contraband vapes statewide, including 263 in Clermont, 636 in Ocoee, 855 in Okaloosa County, and 423 in Milton.
“The Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office is proud to be a part of this team effort,” said Okaloosa County Sheriff Eric Aden.
“It involved effective and worthwhile partnerships designed to protect our communities and keep our young people safe. These products are not harmless, and when they’re sold illegally or marketed towards minors, getting them off the streets is a mission worthy of this combined effort.”
Authorities also reportedly seized nitrous oxide products and related paraphernalia during compliance checks. The Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office (OCSO) arrested Golam Farooque, owner of Unique Vape and Cigar, on eight felony counts of illegal sale of nitrous oxide, according to the Attorney General’s Office.
Niceville.com Community Partner
Investigators reportedly confiscated 195 nitrous oxide canisters from the business and seven additional canisters in Milton. Officers said they also seized 50 nitrous oxide chargers, commonly referred to as “crackers,” along with balloons reportedly used for inhalation.
“I am extremely proud of the hard work and dedication demonstrated by our officers and our partner agencies in this operation,” said Milton Police Chief Jennifer Frank.
“This joint effort underscores the strength of cooperation between local and state entities. Our community’s safety remains a top priority, and we will continue to work tirelessly to enforce the law and protect our youth from harmful and illegal substances.”
Niceville.com Community Partner
Officials said products were removed from sale for violations that included improper labeling, a lack of child-resistant packaging, unlawful marketing practices, and packaging or branding that was said to appeal to minors. Additional violations allegedly involved controlled or prohibited substances, including 7-hydroxymitragynine, tianeptine, and hemp extract exceeding legal tetrahydrocannabinol limits.
Investigations and inspections remain ongoing statewide, according to the Attorney General’s Office. Officials said the Vape Free Florida Fund was created in March 2025 following a $79 million settlement with JUUL Labs to support enforcement of state nicotine and vapor laws.
Niceville.com Community Partner
