MINEOLA, NY (TIP): An Indian American husband and wife were arrested from Albertson, Long Island after police found more than 20 pounds of synthetic marijuana in the basement of a foot spa. The incident happened in Williston Park on Wednesday, October 4, 2017. Sunita Shah, 57 and Rajesh Shah, 62, are both charged with Criminal Possession Precursor of a Controlled Substance, Reckless Endangerment, and Illegal Use of Nitrous Oxide.

According to the Narcotics Vice Squad detectives, Third Precinct Police along with the Williston Park Fire Department responded to the vicinity of Hillside Avenue for a smell of gas. Upon arrival it was discovered that a strong odor was emanating from the basement of Simply Foot Spa located at 120 Hillside Avenue. Nassau Police requested a key holder to respond to further investigate.

A short time later, Sunita Shah and Rajesh Shah arrived and opened the business door. Upon entering several cans of chemicals along with drug paraphernalia were observed. The building was evacuated and then aired out in order to continue with the investigation.

The Nassau County Fire Marshall Office responded and deemed the scene safe. With the assistance of the Nassau County Third Squad, Narcotics Vice Squad, Emergency Services Unit, and the Crime Scene Search Unit it was further discovered that there was an undetermined amount of synthetic marijuana. Recovered were approximately over 20 pounds of loose synthetic marijuana and 5300 bags containing synthetic marijuana. The estimated recovered street value of the marijuana is a quarter of a million dollars.

Both defendants Sunita Shah and Rajesh Shah were placed into police custody without incident.  Both were charged with Criminal Possession Precursor of a Controlled Substance, Reckless Endangerment 2nd Degree, and Illegal Use of Nitrous Oxide. Later, they were released on their own recognizance following their arraignment in First District Court in Hempstead, New York, according to a Mineola Patch report.