Shop clerk, son charged with selling illegal kratom amid probe into deaths of 2 Ole Miss students

The case comes as officials investigate the deaths of University of Mississippi students Hamilton and Robert Strang. Authorities have not established whether kratom or other substances contributed to either death; prosecutors said the circumstances appeared consistent with overdoses.

An affidavit says an investigator’s informant bought kratom pills from Yahya Mosleh on Sept. 24. The clerk allegedly warned the informant about reported deaths and concealed the pills while other customers were present.

Kratom is permitted under federal law, though some state and local governments prohibit it. The FDA says deaths linked to kratom are uncommon and often involve other drugs, leaving its role uncertain.

Toxicology reports were being expedited, and the local narcotics unit said its investigation was continuing, with further charges possible. Lawyers for both defendants declined to comment.