#teamHCSO shut down an illegal narcotics operation in Tampa.
What started as an anonymous tip on January 28, 2026, turned into a multi-week undercover investigation.
Deputies went undercover, purchasing products containing 7-hydroxymitragynine and substances that tested positive for synthetic cannabinoids.
In August 2025, 7-hydroxymitragynine was classified as a controlled substance in Florida, making it illegal to possess or distribute. It is estimated to be 13 times more potent than morphine.
On March 21, 2026, deputies served a search warrant and seized synthetic cannabinoids, marijuana, more than 100 7-hydroxymitragynine tablets, and more than $11,000 in cash
Mohammad Al Youssef, 22, Samantha Gerts, 19, and Abdallah Abdel-Kader III, 21, were arrested and are now facing charges.
