Two Local Businesses Fail Tobacco Compliance Check

Source from:  By The Williston Herald Tuesday, July 17, 2007 07/18/2007

Two businesses failed a tobacco sale compliance check Thursday. In the compliance checks, underage teens, under the supervision of the Williston Police Department will attempt to purchase tobacco products from a retailer. Eighteen businesses were monitored in the tobacco compliance check. The Williston Police Department reported that a 16-year-old boy sold tobacco to underage youth at the Herman Oil Convenience Store. The boy who made the sale will be referred to juvenile authorities for unlawful sale of tobacco to a minor. A second sale of tobacco to an underage minor occurred at the 26th Street Kum & Go Convenience Store. Patrisha Emly, 21, faces charges of unlawful sale of tobacco to a minor. Businesses who sell to minors also face administrative action from the city of Williston under the bylines of the city ordinance. First-time offenders within a 12-month period, are ordered to pay a small fine and have staff and managers trained on checking identification when selling tobacco products. For multiple offenses in a short period, the city commission can implement larger fines, order the suspension of the tobacco licenses or even revoke the licenses if merited. City officials will review the names of the businesses to determine if there have been multiple offenses. Enditem