Cops: Pizza shop selling pot with pies

NEWPORT, R.I. (WPRI) - Police say oregano wasn't the only herb found inside the pizza boxes coming from a Newport pizza parlor. Now, the owner is facing charges.

According to police, the franchise owner of Ronzio Pizza on Broadway was selling marijuana from the business; putting the drugs right inside the pizza boxes.

Police said they began investigating after receiving several tips from neighbors.

Over the course of a month, undercover officers made several drug purchases out of the business. Police said during the transactions, the drugs were placed in a pizza box, along with the pizza.

During the bust, investigators said they found about four ounces of marijuana in the basement, which has a street value of about $1,000. Investigators also seized $1,266 in cash, a security system and a 2003 Mazda.

Police arrested the owner, Manual Periera, 38, and charged him with possession with intent to deliver marijuana.

The investigation is ongoing, police said.