Drug bust at KM hemp shop leads to 1 arrest

Staff Reports | Kings Mountain Police Department

KMPD officers discovered an indoor marijuana grow operation within the business.

KINGS MOUNTAIN – On Feb. 19, 2026, Vice and Criminal Investigators with the Kings Mountain Police Department executed a search warrant at the commercial property known as “Ole Skool Hemp,” located at 243, 245, and 247 S. Battleground Avenue in the downtown area of Kings Mountain.

The investigation began after officers received information regarding suspicious activity consistent with an illegal marijuana cultivation operation inside the business. Following additional investigation and surveillance, investigators established probable cause and obtained a search warrant.

During the execution of the search warrant, officers discovered an indoor marijuana grow operation within the business. The operation included cultivation equipment such as grow lights, irrigation systems, ventilation systems, and fertilizers.

Investigators located and seized the following evidence:

• Approximately 20 dried marijuana plants

• 167.91 lbs of processed marijuana

• .57 lbs of marijuana by product

• Additional evidence related to the distribution of marijuana

While the grow operation itself was licensed and authorized under the USDA hemp program under North Carolina law, investigators determined that products processed and sold by the business had been altered, rendering them illegal under state law.

During the search, investigators also identified potential electrical and fire hazards associated with unauthorized modifications inside the building. The City of Kings Mountain Codes Division responded to the scene addressing these safety concerns.

(Drug bust charges continued below...)

As a result of the investigation, Dustin Ray Spake was charged with Trafficking Marijuana and Maintaining a Dwelling/Vehicle/Place for Controlled Substances.

This investigation remains ongoing. Additional charges may be forthcoming.

The Kings Mountain Police Department remains committed to addressing illegal drug activity in our community and ensuring that businesses operating in our downtown district comply with state law. We appreciate the assistance of concerned citizens who report suspicious activity and keep our community safe.

Anyone with additional information related to this case is encouraged to contact the Kings Mountain Police Department at 704-734-0444 or submit tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers via the tip line at 704-481-8477.

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This is a press release.