6 Greenwich Businesses Violate Tobacco Sale Laws

GREENWICH, CT — Six businesses in Greenwich that sell tobacco were found to be in violation of state law for selling products to youth under the age of 18.

The violations were found during recent unannounced compliance inspections by the Greenwich Police Department's Community Impact Section, members of the State Connecticut Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS), and the Tobacco Prevention and Enforcement Program.

The offending clerks at the businesses were issued $300 fines, according to a news release from the Greenwich Police Department. The Cigarette Dealer license holder at each establishment also faces additional administrative sanctions from the Department of Revenue Services, which is the state agency that issues such licenses.

A total of 10 inspections took place across Greenwich, the GPD said. Under the direction and supervision of DMHAS, an underage youth, who was employed by the Tobacco Prevention and Enforcement Program, entered the targeted establishments and tried to purchase tobacco products.

The establishments found to be in violation were as follows:

• Zyn’s News & Cigars 345 Greenwich Ave.
• Kay Market 1 N. Water St.
• Stateline Smoke Shop 215 Mill St.
• Gulf Gas Station and Mart 370 East Putnam Ave.
• Mohegan Vape and Cigar 1255 East Putnam Ave.
• Gulf Gas Station and Mart 1324 East Putnam Ave.

The following four businesses were in compliance:

• Mobil Gas Station 520 East Putnam Ave.
• Sunoco Gas Station 510 East Putnam Ave.
• Byram Smoke Shop 111 Mill St.
• Cos Cob Stationery 228 East Putnam Ave.

Capt. Mark Zuccerella of the GPD said his message to business owners who sell tobacco products is simple: ask for identification from everyone.

"The state of Connecitut and the GPD want business owners to follow the law. Don't sell tobacco products or devices used to sell tobacco products to children under 21," Zuccerella said. "Card everybody just like with liquor and you'll make sure you're in compliance with the law."