Police seize illegal drug products from Canastota convenience stores

CANASTOTA, NY – The Canastota Police Department has announced the seizure of thousands of illegal marijuana and electronic cigarette products from two local convenience stores.

On May 1st, 2026 law enforcement personnel from multiple agencies executed search warrants upon SP Convenience of S. Peterboro Street in Canastota and seized more than 1,000 packages of flavored vapes, Juul vapes, THC vapes, and THC gummies. Police also seized a large quantity of raw marijuana, rolled marijuana cigarettes, and cash.

One individual, 24-year-old Ria Thomas of Utica, has been arrested as a result of this investigation. Thomas is charged with:

2nd degree criminal possession of marijuana
5th degree criminal possession of marijuana

On the same date police also executed a search warrant at the In & Out Deli & Shop on N. Main Street in Canastota. Several hundred flavored vapes and Juul e-cigarettes were seized, along with an undisclosed amount of cash. The investigation into the In & Out Deli is ongoing.

The arrest and seizures are the culmination of a months-long investigation. The Canastota Police Department executed search warrants on both businesses with the assistance of the Oneida City Police Department, Madison County Health Department, and New York State Office of Cannabis Management.

SP Convenience has been closed as a result of this investigation. Police say tips and complaints from the public led to the investigation.

Any members of the public who encounter or are otherwise aware of the sale of illegal substances in the village are asked to call the Canastota Police Department at (315) 697-2240. Tips will be kept confidential.

Canastota Police Department photos