11 citations issued for selling tobacco to minors
Eleven of Charleston’s 19 tobacco retailers were issued citations following a state grant funded tobacco compliance detail conducted by the Charleston Police Department Monday.
A minor was sent into all local retailers to purchase a tobacco product under police supervision.
Retailers found to be in violation of the city ordinance included: Huck’s, Mike and Stan’s, Indio Cigar Factory, Lefty’s Holler, Murphy’s USA, Citgo, Discount Smoke Shop, The Panther Paw, Gateway Liquor, County Market and Marathon/Mach 1.
“I was expecting one or two, but certainly not 11,” said Deputy Chief Dave Chambers.
Those not in compliance with the state’s tobacco policy were issued citations, which will likely result in a fine totaling $300.
“Any time that you’ve got a product that the sale of which is restricted, you’ve got to check up on whether businesses are complying with these restrictions,” Chambers said.
Wal-Mart and Walgreen’s were among the eight local retailers who passed the compliance detail.
“All associates go through an annual training program to make sure that they’re up to date on state laws and policies pertaining to the retail industry,” said Jennifer Thomas, assistant manager at Wal-Mart. “We’re very happy that we passed the check, and we’re proud to be among business’s in Charleston who are upholding the law.”
Walgreen’s has a similar policy.
“Technically, company policy states that if anyone looks under 40 we’re supposed to card them,” said Sarah Stoecker, assistant manager at Walgreen’s. “And employees are required to pass a computerized test to verify that they are familiar with company and state policies.”
County Market and Gateway Liquor declined to comment.
Chambers said there are two more rounds of checks to do before spring.
“My message to those retailers (in violation), and to the college students who work for them, is that you’ve simply got to check IDs, and not just glance at them, but actually take the time to check the date of birth,” he said.
Jason Hardimon can be reached at 581-7942
