RANKIN COUNTY – The Rankin County Sheriff’s Office has seized more than 2,000 packets of kratom from convenience stores following an investigation into the sale of the substance in unincorporated areas of the county.
According to the sheriff’s office, the investigation began after citizens reported complaints about kratom being sold at local convenience stores.
In March 2024, the Rankin County Board of Supervisors passed a county ordinance prohibiting the use, purchase, possession, distribution, sale or offering for sale of synthetic cocaine and kratom in unincorporated areas of Rankin County.
After the ordinance was approved, deputies hand-delivered copies of the new law to convenience stores across the county.
Investigators later conducted undercover purchases and audits of stores located in unincorporated areas of Rankin County.
The operation resulted in the seizure of approximately 2,030 packets of kratom, with an estimated value of $48,267.12, according to the sheriff’s office.
Store employees who allegedly sold kratom to undercover agents have been charged with violating the county ordinance. The violation carries a penalty of up to $1,000 in fines and/or up to six months in the county jail.
Authorities said the seized kratom products will be held as evidence until the cases are resolved and will then be destroyed.
The Rankin County Sheriff’s Office encourages residents to report stores selling illegal products in the county by calling 601-825-1480.
