These columns list arrests and not convictions, unless otherwise stated. Anyone listed here who is later found not guilty or has had the charges against them dropped is welcome to inform this newspaper. The information will be confirmed and printed.
This month, members of the Okeechobee Narcotics Task Force conducted an undercover operation targeting e-cigarette/vape pens sales to underage minors within Okeechobee.
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OKEECHOBEE — This month, members of the Okeechobee Narcotics Task Force conducted an undercover operation targeting e-cigarette/vape pens sales to underage minors within Okeechobee.
Several stores about which the Okeechobee County Sheriff’s Office has received numerous complaints of the stores selling vape pens/e-cigarettes to underage minors were targeted.
During the operation, ten stores were targeted with underage minors to purchase vape pens/e-cigarettes from four different businesses, each without providing identification to show proof of age. (Per Florida statute 569, it is unlawful to sell or give tobacco to a person under the age of 21, which is a second-degree misdemeanor.)
The following four stores Bill’s Mini Mart, Town Star Hwy 710, One Stop Food Store, and the Tobacco Store, and the following individuals were issued a criminal summons for the violation: David Troy Karratti, 35; Caitlin Ann Murphy, 18; Delaine Ann-Marie Henry, 52; and, Edward Thomas Lundsford, 38.
The Okeechobee County Sheriff’s Office will continue conducting random undercover operations of local businesses selling vape pens/e-cigarettes to underage minors.
OCSO appreciates those who came forward and provided information about the targeted establishments. Want to leave a tip, as these tipsters did, call 863-763-7787 and leave a message at the beep.
