Drug Dealer Targets Youth 

May 16, 2026 – Tuolumne County Sheriff's Office officials report that in March 2026, Patrol Deputies received information from a concerned parent that a 17-year-old high school student was selling MDMA (ecstasy), LSD (acid), marijuana, and nicotine vape products to local students, including children as young as 12.

The Tuolumne Narcotics Team (TNT), assisted by School Resource Deputies, initiated an investigation. Through search warrants for multiple social media platforms, TNT identified the juvenile suspect and the suspected supplier, 18-year-old Sage Evan Inman. Search warrants were subsequently obtained for both residences.

On April 24, 2026, TNT served the warrants at both locations. Deputies seized approximately 115 grams of psilocybin mushrooms, over 200 doses of LSD, 2.5 grams of MDMA (Ecstasy), more than 500 grams of processed marijuana, about 100 grams of concentrated THC (butane honey oil), numerous marijuana and nicotine vape products, packaging materials, a digital scale, and over $6,500 in cash.

The 17-year-old was taken into custody by School Resource Deputies and booked into the Mother Lode Regional Juvenile Detention Center. Inman was arrested and booked into the Dambacher Detention Center. Both were charged with drug sales, selling drugs to minors, conspiracy, and contributing to the delinquency of a minor.

The Tuolumne County Sheriff’s Office reminds parents that social media has made it dangerously easy for children to access illegal drugs, vapes, and nicotine products. Dealers often use apps to advertise and communicate anonymously, allowing kids to connect and purchase substances.

Parents can help reduce these risks by staying actively involved in their child’s online life. Set clear expectations about social media use, monitor apps and messages, and use parental controls when appropriate. Most importantly, have open, ongoing conversations about the dangers of drugs, vaping, and online interactions—so children feel comfortable reporting anything suspicious or unsafe.

We continue to work closely with all our local schools to ensure our children have a safe learning environment.

Source & photo: Tuolumne County Sheriff's Office