“We want strict enforcement of the law, with zero tolerance for violators.”
Joliet Mayor Terry D’Arcy announced recently the city has shut down five local establishments for violating laws related to selling vaping materials to underage individuals. D’Arcy, who also serves as liquor and tobacco commissioner, credits the public for their assistance in reporting the problems to his office.
“We received a complaint about underage selling of vaping materials throughout Joliet, so we enlisted the help of our police department to put together a sting operation,” explained D’Arcy. “The operation found five establishments violating the ordinance, and these businesses have been issued an emergency suspension order for seven days. We want strict enforcement of the law, with zero tolerance for violators.”
According to the Illinois Department of Public Health, e-cigarettes, vapes, vape or hookah pens, e-pipes, and other vaping products are battery-powered devices that allow users to inhale, or vape, aerosolized liquid (e-juice). As of July 1, 2019, Illinois law prohibits the sale of tobacco products, including these products, to people under the age of 21.
The names of the five establishments include: Cuddy Tobacco and Vape – 1507 W. Jefferson Street; Smoke Shop Superstore – 1358 W. Jefferson Street; Tobacco and Cigars – 3109 W. Jefferson Street; Up in Smoke – 330 Republic Avenue; and Cuddy World Tobacco – 185 Larkin Avenue.
Sherrie Blackburn, deputy chief for administration in the Joliet Police Department stated, “the Joliet Police Department is committed to the safety and well-being of our community, especially our youth. This operation underscores our dedication to enforcing the law and protecting our young residents. We will continue to work diligently to ensure businesses adhere to these important regulations, and we urge all retailers to be vigilant in verifying the age of their customers when selling age-restricted products.”
According to the local ordinance, the owner of the license can request a hearing within the seven-day suspension. First time offenders face a fine of up to $1,000 and up to a 30-day suspension.