Staff report

TALLAHASSEE, Fla.– First Lady Casey DeSantis and Lieutenant Governor Jay Collins have praised the successful efforts of law enforcement in a significant undercover operation aiming to curb the illegal trade of nitrous oxide. Spearheaded by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation’s Division of Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco (ABT), alongside federal, state, and local agencies, this initiative targeted the growing misuse of nitrous oxide. The operation concluded with 70 felony arrests and 16 warrants issued to retailers involved in selling the substance for recreational use.

Locally, eight people were arrested for distributing nitrous oxide:

• Rajan A. Darki, 34, 101 Smoke Shop, Gainesville
• Nijaben Maheshbhai Desai, 20, Smokeville Smoke Shop, Gainesville
• Barbara Louise Green, 41, at Smoker Express, Newberry
• Kelly Michele Klaassen, 57, Smoker Express, Newberry
• Jainish Vishnubhai Patel, 24, 101 Smoke Shop, Gainesville
• Nisha Sunilkumar Patel, 22, Smoke Island Smoke Shop, Gainesville
• Brandon Justin Register, 32, Smoke Island Smoke Shop, Gainesville
• Roger Lee Smith, 39, Smoke Island Smoke Shop, Gainesville

“It’s concerning to witness these dangerous substances being sold in Florida, yet I am grateful for the efforts of the Florida Department of Law Enforcement and collaborating agencies in rooting out these sellers,” stated First Lady Casey DeSantis. “Through our “The Facts. Your Future.” campaign in schools, we strive to inform students truthfully about substance abuse, enabling them to make more informed choices regarding how drug use and abuse can negatively impact their lives.”

“We will not permit harmful substances to endanger our families in Florida,” emphasized Lieutenant Governor Jay Collins. “Our focus is on safeguarding our children and holding those accountable who threaten Floridians’ safety. This operation delivers a clear warning: those who target Floridians will face the full power of the law. I am proud of the unwavering dedication and cooperation demonstrated by all participating agencies in this mission.”

“Through the dedication of the Governor, First Lady, and Lieutenant Governor towards public safety and law enforcement support, we have seen real improvements in community security, solidifying Florida’s role as a national leader in resident protection and law enforcement,” remarked DBPR Secretary Melanie Griffin. “ABT is thoroughly committed to its mission to protect public welfare by challenging hazardous substances and illicit activities that put Floridians at risk.”

This operation represents the largest statewide effort resulting in felony arrests in the 92-year history of ABT. This undertaking, conducted with the collaboration of the Office of the Attorney General, multiple state attorneys, military partners like the Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS), and numerous local law enforcement agencies, exposed the widespread illegal distribution of nitrous oxide. Agencies supporting this mission included the Davie Police Department, US Border Patrol, Coral Springs Police Department, St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office, Gainesville Police Department, Bay County Sheriff’s Office, Escambia County Sheriff’s Office, Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office, Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, and West Palm Beach Police Department. Collectively, these efforts are tackling a perilous and expanding epidemic.

Throughout the investigation, undercover operatives purchased nitrous oxide canisters from retailers licensed by DBPR throughout the state. Often, sellers not only provided these items but also guided agents on using the canisters and devices to achieve a high. These encounters showcased clear evidence that transactions were conducted with awareness and intention for illegal recreational purposes.

Nitrous oxide has surged in popularity among teens and young adults. Inhaling nitrous oxide poses serious risks, including loss of consciousness, paralysis, neurological damage, and even death, with potential long-term effects lingering long after use has stopped. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued strong warnings in March and June of this year against inhaling or recreationally using any form of nitrous oxide, citing these serious health risks and fatalities.

The Facts. Your Future., which First Lady Casey DeSantis launched in December 2019, directly engages youth in Florida to improve their understanding of the life-altering effects of drug use and equips students with tools they need to make decisions about their health and future.

New The Facts. Your Future. resources available online throughout the year.