The Charleston Police Department has charged two employees of Saints Market, located at 976 Orleans Road, following an investigation into the unlawful sale of tobacco products to minors.
Detectives were already familiar with the business due to a 2022 investigation that revealed the sale of alcohol to minors, which ultimately led to the store’s alcohol license being revoked. The most recent investigation began after complaints that Saints Market was continuing to cater to underage customers by selling them tobacco products.
As a result of the investigation, the following charges were filed:
- Hussein S. Abdelmoteleb (65, of Charleston) is charged with unlawful sale of tobacco to minors 3rd offense.
- Zeyad Abdelmoaty Elsheimy (40, of Charleston) is charged with two counts of unlawful sale of tobacco to minors, and one count of contributing to the delinquency of a minor.
Businesses that repeatedly sell alcohol or tobacco to minors put the community at risk. Laws regulating these products exist to protect young people from harmful substances and to hold accountable those who profit by ignoring them. The Charleston Police Department will continue to respond when businesses choose to endanger the health and safety of children. Anyone with information about businesses selling alcohol, tobacco, vape, or THC products to minors can submit tips online at https://charlestonpd.fususvault.com/tips .
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Media Release
Release Date: September 23, 2025
Media Contact: Sgt. C. Stinson
E-mail: cpdpublicinformationteam@charleston-sc.gov