In April, Livermore Police’s School Resource Sergeant received complaints from parents and school staff about a person selling nicotine vapes, marijuana vapes, marijuana, and psilocybin chocolate bars to minors as young as 12 years old at local middle and high schools.

The suspect used social media platforms, including Instagram and Snapchat, to contact and sell the products to children, often changing his online handles and using fake names to avoid detection. The case was handed over to the Livermore Police Crime Prevention Unit.

After four months of surveillance, multiple witness statements, and the execution of over 10 search warrants, Livermore Police identified 20-year-old Brian Gonzalez of Tracy as the suspect.

During a search of an apartment in Tracy, officers found more than $40,000 in cash and vapes valued at an estimated $125,000. Police also discovered that Gonzalez was using a 13-year-old boy to help distribute these products.

Livermore Police obtained a Ramey warrant. On October 26, Gonzalez was arrested by Tracy Police. Gonzalez faces multiple charges, including selling and furnishing cannabis to a minor, possession of psilocybin for sale, possession of cannabis for sale, contributing to the delinquency of a minor, and selling tobacco products without a license.

The case has been turned over to the Alameda County District Attorney’s Office for prosecution. Anyone with information related to this investigation is encouraged to contact the Livermore Police Department’s anonymous tip line at (925) 371-4790.

Earlier this year, the Livermore Police Department partnered with the Livermore Valley Joint Unified School District to provide information on vaping and substance use. To view the webinar, visit https://vimeo.com/905278556.