A man is facing drug charges following a compliance inspection, Shelton police say.

Police conducted the inspection in partnership with several state agencies at Shelton Convenience LLC on Dec. 1, 2025.

During the inspection, authorities seized 256 illegal cannabis related products, including THC edibles, vape cartridges, and cannabis flower, which totaled over 4.6 pounds.

Police say the business was not licensed to sell these products and "zoning regulations explicitly prohibit marijuana sales at that location."

Following an investigation, Essa Almalaiki was taken into custody Wednesday.

Almalaiki was charged with possession 1 kilogram or more of cannabis, possession with intent to sell narcotics and interfering with an officer.

He is expected to appear in court in May.