Bethel Smoke Shop Worker Fined For Selling To Underage Buyer: Police

BETHEL, CT — Police cited and fined a worker at a Bethel tobacco shop for selling a tobacco product to an underage buyer.

The action came during an unannounced tobacco and cigarette compliance check on Wednesday, according to a news release from the Bethel Police Department.

The Bethel PD teamed up with the State of Connecticut, Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services Tobacco Prevention and Enforcement Program to conduct the checks in 17 local businesses. The drop-ins were scheduled after police received several complaints about underage tobacco buyers in Bethel.

During one of the visits, a worker at The Smokey Smoke Shop at 180 Old Hawleyville Road was cited for illegal sale of electronic nicotine delivery system or vape product to someone under 21 years of age, and fined $300.

Retailers are required by state law to inspect the photo ID of anyone who appears to be under the age of 30 who attempt to purchase tobacco products.