Virginia Authorities bust 4 tobacco retailers for selling to minors

Authorities in Lynchburg, Virginia have reported that the local police department has cracked down on four tobacco retailers for selling electronic cigarettes to minors, resulting in charges against two employees.

These employees have been accused of selling tobacco and electronic cigarette products to customers under the age of 21.

According to a press release from the police, employees of these companies were selling electronic cigarette materials to underage buyers.

The unnamed officers have each received subpoenas from the police, accusing them of violating section 18.2-371.2 of the Virginia Code, which prohibits the purchase, possession, and sale of tobacco products, nicotine e-cigarettes, alternative nicotine products, and marijuana products used to smoke by those under the age of 21. These violations are subject to civil penalties. The police did not disclose the identity of the officers involved.

Lieutenant David Smith of the Lisborough Police stated in a press release that they are sending a clear message to local retailers that they have a responsibility to train their staff to comply with the law and ensure that age-restricted products are only sold to customers of legal age. As such, the Lisborough Police Department regularly conducts activities to prohibit the sale of tobacco and alcohol products to minors.

The Resource Officer at the Lewisburg Police Department collaborated with the Sheriff's Office in Loudoun County to offer education to elementary and middle school students about the dangers of e-cigarettes through the D.A.R.E. program.