Both the manager and assistant manager of Pizzano’sPizza found themselves behind bars Thursday after police learned pizza was not the only thing people were buying from the restaurant.
Detectives from the Lake Wales Police Department’sCrime Suppression Unit launched an undercover investigation after receiving information that Leon Griffith, the manager of Pizzano’s Pizza was selling drugs from the restaurant. During the investigation, a detective called the restaurant and asked for Griffith, who gave them his personal phone number. The two later communicated about what drugs were wanted, thenGriffith left the restaurant and delivered marijuana to the detective.
A few days later, the detective contacted Griffith again and arranged to purchase more drugs. Griffith told the detective to come to the restaurant in order to make the purchase. On 06/22/2023, the detective arrived and Griffith exited the restaurant to meet them in the parking lot. Griffith sold the detective powder cocaine, Xanax and Adderall. Following the sale, Griffith was arrested and the restaurant was searched. During the search, assistant manager Hailee Sullivan’s bag containing methamphetamine was located inside the employee restroom. Sullivan admitted the methamphetamine belonged to her and she was also arrested.
If you are aware of any establishments that may be violating the law you may contact the Lake Wales Police Department or contact Crime Stoppers. Call 1-800-226 TIPS (8477) or from your cell phone, dial **TIPS. You can also visit the website www.heartlandcrimestoppers.com and click on “Submit A Tip,” or download the free “P3tips” app on your smartphone or tablet to submit a tip.
