Consumers looking for a glass pipe in DeKalb will likely have to go somewhere else soon. TJ’s Accessories, 1220 W. Lincoln Highway, will have to reorganize its business.

Owners of TJ’s avoided prosecution by agreeing to never sell glass pipes in DeKalb again.

DeKalb County State’s Attorney Ron Matekaitis worked out an agreement with TJ’s attorney Vince Solano.

Included in the agreement with TJ’s was a provision that all 560 confiscated pipes deemed drug paraphernalia would be returned, said DeKalb Police Lt. Jim Kayes.

An agreement was profitable to both parties. So much inventory was seized it would be difficult for TJ’s to shoulder during a long trial. Additionally, the state’s attorney had to decide whether a costly trial could be won.

“$15,000 worth of inventory was confiscated.” Solano said. “The owner has a store in South Elgin where he can sell the inventory.”

TJ’s Accessories may bring in different inventory to operate as another type of retail store.

Half of the store’s inventory was unaffected by the police action because it was sex toys and pornography.

The Huka Corner, 811 W. Lincoln Highway, is now the only place in DeKalb smokers can get a glass pipe and that may not be for long.

Within a glass case, the Huka Corner has a small shelf of pipes that includes 12 assorted glass pipes, about a half dozen one-hitters, a few wooden pipes and one metal pipe.

“I would imagine the DeKalb police would be talking to them soon,” Matekaitis said.

DeKalb police confirmed they would be making a visit but did not specify when.

“In the end, we are hoping for compliance without arrests,” Matekaitis said.

Without compliance, the Huka Corner could be shut down like TJ’s, and it may not get the deal TJ’s got, Kayes said.

“I am waiting to see what the police will do, then I will take legal action if necessary,” Huka Corner owner Joel Harb said. In the past, the Huka Corner has fought city efforts to prohibit the sale of glass pipes.

“A judge would have to declare the store a public nuisance in court,” Matekaitis said. “I’m hoping and expecting a public nuisance action will not have to be pursued.”

DeKalb police only wants to eliminate items that are more commonly used illegally.

“I don’t have any problem with the hookas they sell,” Kayes said.