HERNANDO COUNTY, Fla. A Tampa smoke shop owner arrested earlier this year in connection with an alleged dark web narcotics operation is now facing homicide-related charges after authorities announced additional developments in the case. According to investigators, 38-year-old Ryan Perez, owner of the Hippie Crib smoke shops in Tampa, was taken into custody on March 11, 2026, following a probe into his alleged involvement in a dark web narcotics operation.
Perez is now facing charges related to homicide, although specific details about the homicide case have not been disclosed. The Hippie Crib smoke shops, located in Tampa, were reportedly part of the investigation into Perez’s alleged dark web activities. Authorities have not provided further information on the homicide case, but the development marks an escalation in the charges against Perez.
The case against Perez began with his arrest on March 11, 2026. Since then, investigators have uncovered additional evidence leading to the new homicide-related charges. The Hernando County Sheriff’s Office and other local law enforcement agencies have been involved in the investigation, which is ongoing.
Residents in Hernando County and surrounding areas, including Brooksville, Spring Hill, and Dade City, may be concerned about the impact of such cases on their community’s safety. The authorities continue to investigate and gather evidence in the case against Perez.
Originally reported by R News
Sources: R News
