MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — The owners and operators of a Morgantown hookah lounge face federal drug charges.
The U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of West Virginia announced an indictment against Stephen Graziano, 25 of Morgantown, and Nicholas Graziano, 53 of Melville, New York, on Wednesday.
Authorities claim the men were distributing synthetic marijuana from the X Hale Hookah Lounge from July 2012 through April 2014.
The designer drugs referred to as spice, K2, incense or fake weed have similar physiological effects as controlled substances.
Both men were charged with a single count each of drug conspiracy, possession with intent to distribute, maintaining a drug involved premises and aiding and abetting.
Charges against the Grazianos include 11 counts of aiding and abetting the distribution of a controlled substance.
Additionally, Nicholas Graziano was charged with one count of engaging in monetary transaction in property derived from specific unlawful activity.
Stephen Graziano is also charged with one count of laundering of monetary instruments.
Stephen Graziano faces 55 years in prison and $2 million in fines from the combined charges.
Nicholas Graziano faces 65 years in prison and a $2.5 million in fines.