Citations issued after minor decoy used in compliance check of tobacco sales

Darby Good
·1 min read

PALESTINE, Texas (KETK) – Multiple citations have been issued after Palestine PD said they conducted a tobacco/vape sales compliance check on Saturday at various locations.

6 people arrested after trying to cash more than $46,000 in forged checks

The operation consisted of a minor decoy going to the following businesses, where police officials said they were sold a tobacco product by an employee:

  • JJ’s Fast Stop #105 at 2110 Crockett Road

  • Wal-Mart Supercenter #345 at 2223 S. Loop 256

  • Gateway Travel Plaza of Palestine at 2530 W. Oak Street

  • Fast Track at 3804 W. Oak Street

  • Petro Mart #3, Katie’s Pantry, at 4217 W. Oak Street

  • Kim’s #2, Box Car Deli, at 1219 E. Palestine Avenue

  • Kim’s #45 at 2585 N. State Highway 19

  • Jag’s #1 at 500 E. Palestine Avenue

  • Kwik Stop at 704 W. Palestine Avenue

Photo of tobacco products acquired during operation.
Photo of tobacco products acquired during operation courtesy of the Palestine Police Department.

“Management from Kim’s Corporate Office contacted the police department following the operation, stating they have a strict policy against underaged sales and any conviction would result in termination of the employee,” police said in a release.

According to officials, the compliance check operation was conducted in response to complaints from parents who reported their children were being sold tobacco/vape products. Offending employees were cited for selling a tobacco product to a minor, and police said the violations will be reported to the Texas Comptroller’s Office.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KETK.com | FOX51.com.