8 tobacco businesses in Torrington sold to underage customers

TORRINGTON, CT (WFSB) – Eight tobacco businesses in Torrington have failed inspections for selling tobacco products to customers under the age of 21.

The Torrington Police Department, in collaboration with the State of Connecticut Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DHMAS) as part of the Tobacco Prevention and Enforcement Program (TPEP), conducted unannounced compliance inspections on August 20.

The inspections aimed to ensure that retailers are following state laws requiring them to check the ID of anyone who appears under 30 before selling tobacco products or electronic cigarettes.

Out of 51 inspections conducted, eight establishments were found in violation of the state’s regulations.

The clerks at these businesses received a first-time infraction fine of $300.

The non-compliant results have been referred to the Connecticut Department of Revenue Services (DRS) for potential administrative action.

The non-compliant businesses identified are:

• Joselito Supermarket, 70 Central Avenue
• Citgo Food Mart, 294 South Main Street
• Shawn’s Mini Mart, 35 Water Street
• Smoker’s Ape Smoke Shop, 14 McDermott Avenue
• Mix Tobacco & Vape, 118 East Main Street
• Smoke Toke, LLC, 1060 East Main Street
• Uniq and Berkshire, LLC, 1881 East Main Street
• Vape Empire and Skye High Smoke Shop, 451 Main Street

The Torrington Awareness and Prevention Partnership (TAPP), coordinated by the McCall Behavioral Health Network, works to enhance community wellness and reduce youth substance use.

The partnership with TAPP and the Torrington Police Department is vital in preventing youth nicotine addiction and its long-term effects.

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