May 2, 2025

Third Vape Shop in Shreveport Closed Amid Drug Investigation

News Summary

King Vaperz, a vape shop in Shreveport, was shut down on April 30, 2025, following an investigation by local police related to narcotics distribution. This closure is part of a broader operation targeting illegal substance distribution to minors. The arrested individual, Yusef Ghazawneh, faces multiple drug-related charges. This action follows two previous vape store closures in the city as concerns about youth access to vaping products rise. Local authorities emphasize the importance of community vigilance regarding illegal drug activities.

Shreveport – A third vape shop in Shreveport, King Vaperz, was closed on April 30, 2025, following an investigation that led to an arrest related to narcotics distribution. The Shreveport Police Department’s Vice Unit conducted the investigation after receiving complaints about minors possessing vape products and illegal substances. The closure comes amid heightened scrutiny of vape shops in the city, particularly regarding their potential involvement in distributing narcotics to underage users.

The arrested individual, identified as Yusef Ghazawneh, faces multiple charges including distribution of narcotics and possession of controlled dangerous substances, along with firearms. The investigation took place around 5 p.m. at King Vaperz, located at 4311 Youree Drive. During the investigation, authorities found multiple firearms and a significant quantity of narcotics, raising concerns about the safety and legality of operations within the shop.

This latest closure follows two previous vape store shutdowns, Zaza Vape & Tobacco and Pro Smoke and Vape No. 3, which were part of a larger multi-agency crime sweep dubbed Operation Curveball. This operation resulted in over 200 arrests and the seizure of approximately $115,000 in illegal drugs. The aim of Operation Curveball was to target the distribution of illegal substances to “underage and vulnerable individuals,” indicating a systemic issue within the community regarding youth access to narcotics.

Impact on Youth and Community Safety

Concerns regarding youth access to vape products have been highlighted by recent statistics from the CDC. According to their data, 5.9% of middle and high school students reported using electronic cigarettes in 2024, a decrease from 7.7% in 2023. Moreover, a significant number of students, at 67.4%, attempted to quit vaping within the same timeframe, reflecting the challenges teenagers face in relation to nicotine addiction and peer pressure.

Local Law Enforcement Response

Shreveport Police Chief Wayne Smith emphasized the department’s ongoing commitment to protecting the youth and disrupting illegal operations in the area. The police department urges community members to assist law enforcement by reporting any suspected illegal drug activities. Individuals can contact the Shreveport Police Department at 318-673-7300 or Crime Stoppers at 318-673-7373. Those wishing to remain anonymous can submit tips via the P3 Tips mobile app or the Crime Stoppers website, which may qualify them for a reward for their contributions.

Background Context

The recent surge in vape shop closures is part of a larger effort to address public health concerns and illegal drug distribution in Shreveport. The rise in youth vaping and access to illegal substances has raised alarms among parents, educators, and public health officials alike. The combination of strong enforcement measures and community awareness campaigns aims to curb youth nicotine use and protect the health of minors in the region.

As the Shreveport community navigates these challenges, the actions taken by law enforcement serve as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and reporting any dubious activities linked to narcotics and juvenile access to them. Local authorities will continue to monitor the situation closely to ensure the safety of all residents, particularly the youth.

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Author: STAFF HERE SHREVEPORT WRITER

The SHREVEPORT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREShreveport.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Shreveport, Caddo Parish, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Mudbug Madness Festival, Red River Revel Arts Festival, and Independence Bowl. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Shreveport-Bossier Chamber of Commerce and Shreveport Regional Arts Council, plus leading businesses in gaming, healthcare, and energy that power the local economy such as Horseshoe Casino, Ochsner LSU Health, and Atmos Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBatonRouge.com and HERENewOrleans.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Louisiana's dynamic landscape.

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STAFF HERE SHREVEPORT WRITER

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