Police look to uncover who placed 'pipe' dispensers

Police are working to identify whoever placed makeshift vending machines around Suffolk County that dispensed pens that can be used as crack pipes.

As News 12 has reported, two of the dispensers popped up in the last week or so in Coram. One was in front of the Coram Commons shopping center, and the other was down Middle Country Road at Westfield Road. A third dispenser was discovered outside the Fairfield Apartments on Route 112 at Granny Road in Medford.

Officials say the machines dispensed crack pipes disguised as pens. When the pens are taken apart, a glass tube with a screen is found inside.

MORE: Officials hold news conference on crack pipe dispensers found on LI

Town of Brookhaven officials held a news conference on the dispensers Monday, after crews removed the last of the machines. A witness tells News 12 it was smashed by a man with a sledgehammer.

According to Suffolk police, it's not illegal to buy or possess the pens, but there are legal ramifications if the pens are used for drug activity. And the unauthorized placement of the machines themselves violate Brookhaven code -- town officials say the fine for installing the machines can be up to $4,000.

Anyone with information about who is behind the machines is urged to call Suffolk police at 1-800-220-TIPS. Police also want residents to call if they spot any more of the machines.