On Wednesday the Greenwich Police Dept’s Community Impact Section, in coordination with the Connecticut Dept of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS) and the Tobacco Prevention and Enforcement Program (TPEP), conducted unannounced compliance inspections at retail establishments across Greenwich that sell tobacco and electronic cigarette products.
Police said the inspections were conducted as part of a statewide effort to ensure compliance with CT General Statutes prohibiting the sale of tobacco products and e-cigarettes to individuals under the age of 21.
According to state law, retailers must verify the photo identification of any customer appearing to be under 30 years of age prior to selling any tobacco-related product.
During the operation, an underage youth employed by TPEP, working under the direct supervision of DMHAS investigators, entered 18 retail establishments and attempted to purchase tobacco products.
Of the 18 establishments inspected, 17 were found to be in compliance with the law.
However, Mohegan Vape and Cigar, located at 1255 East Putnam Avenue, was found to be in violation of Connecticut General Statute Sec. 53-344(b) – Sale of tobacco to a person under twenty-one.
Police said the incident marked the eighth offense for this establishment.
The clerk responsible for the sale was issued an Infraction Summons in the amount of $300, and the Cigarette Dealer license holder is now subject to potential administrative sanctions from the Department of Revenue Services.
Establishments Found in Violation:
* Mohegan Vape and Cigar – 1255 East Putnam Avenue (8th Offense)
The Greenwich Police Department thanks all participating agencies for their ongoing efforts to protect the health and safety of youth in our community. Compliance checks like these are essential to deterring illegal tobacco sales and ensuring that businesses uphold their responsibility under the law.