SPEARFISH, S.D. — The owner of a Spearfish vape shop is facing felony drug charges after authorities say illegal substances were found at his business.
Christopher Lee Miller, 41, owner of HotHead Vapor, is charged with one count of distribution of a Schedule I substance in a drug-free zone and one count of possession with intent to distribute in a drug-free zone.
According to the South Dakota Attorney General’s Office, the investigation began after Spearfish Police received a tip about Miller. He was arrested on Tuesday, March 31, following a joint investigation by state and local authorities.
Authorities say they seized approximately 97 vape pens containing substances such as THCA, HXY-9 THC and Delta-8 THC, along with Delta-8-infused gummies and more than $1,600 in cash.
The arrest comes amid a broader crackdown on smoke and vape shops across South Dakota.
Last month, a Pierre smoke shop owner, Bristol Nielsen, 29, pleaded guilty to drug charges connected to an undercover operation. Nielsen owned Masterpiece Smoke Shop and was one of five shop owners charged after controlled buys conducted between June 11 and June 13, 2025.
Investigators reported purchasing products including psilocybin mushrooms and high-THC items from shops in Pierre, Sioux Falls, Aberdeen and Rapid City.
Nielsen is scheduled to be sentenced April 21.
Miller was released on a $5,000 bond, and his arraignment is scheduled for April 16.
