Oxford Store Clerk, Son Charged in Ole Miss Student Deaths

A store clerk and his son face charges in connection with suspected kratom derivatives found in the rooms of two University of Mississippi students who died recently, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Mississippi. Yahya Mosleh, 51, and his son, Islam Mosleh, 18, are charged with possession with intent to distribute controlled substances.

Law enforcement linked kratom derivative packages found in the students’ rooms to substances sold at a local vape, tobacco, and beer store operated by the Moslehs. Authorities have seized the suspected kratom derivatives.

While the substances' role in the students' deaths is not yet determined, prosecutors stated both deaths appeared consistent with overdoses. Toxicology reports are pending, and state agencies are expediting them.

Kratom, a plant-based product, can have stimulant and pain-relieving effects in low doses but may act as an opiate-like sedative in higher amounts. Derivatives like MGPI, MGM-15, and MGM-16 are classified as Schedule I controlled substances, making them more potent than natural kratom or morphine. These are sometimes referred to as “gas station heroin.” Kratom is legal federally but banned in 11 states. Mississippi regulates its sale, restricting purchases to individuals 21 and older. Oxford and Lafayette County, where the university is located, have local bans on kratom.