105 Pounds Of Illegal Cannabis/THC Products Seized In Bridgeport; 3 Arrested: Police

BRIDGEPORT, CT — Bridgeport police and several partner agencies seized more than 100 pounds of cannabis and THC-related products and arrested three employees during the execution of a search warrant at a smoke shop Friday, authorities said.

The warrant was carried out March 13 at Dubai High Tobacco & Vape, located at 51 Boston Ave., in a coordinated operation involving the Bridgeport Police Department’s Narcotics and Vice Division, the DEA Bridgeport Field Office, the Bridgeport Fire Inspector’s Office and the city’s Building Department.

Officers seized approximately 105 pounds of cannabis and THC-related products as well as $6,788 in U.S. currency that investigators believe was connected to illegal sales, police said.

Authorities said the operation was part of an effort to address complaints about the illegal sale of cannabis and THC products at smoke shops in Bridgeport.

Police said the same establishment had previously been the site of another seizure. On Nov. 10, 2025, members of the Bridgeport Police Narcotics and Vice Division, working with state agencies, seized about 135 pounds of cannabis and THC-related products from the store.

Three employees were arrested during Friday’s operation, police said.

Henry Inoa Aponte, identified by police as a security guard, was charged with conspiracy to commit operation of a drug factory under Connecticut General Statutes 53a-48 and 21a-277(c). His bond was set at $1,500.

Joey J. Diaz, a store clerk, was charged with possession with intent to sell more than one kilogram of cannabis, sale of a narcotic substance, and operation of a drug factory under Connecticut General Statutes 21a-278(b)(1D), 21a-277(a)(1A) and 21a-277(c). His bond was set at $50,000.

Jesus Sabino Arroyo Henrick, also a store clerk, faces the same charges as Diaz. His bond was also set at $50,000.

In addition to the arrests, city agencies issued violations to the business. The Bridgeport Building Department issued a stop-work order for on-site violations, authorities said.

Police are asking anyone with information about narcotics violations to contact the Bridgeport Police Narcotics Tip Line at 203-576-7903.