Clinton, TN (WOKI / WVLT) – Eight Clinton businesses have been cited after failing an undercover compliance operation designed to ensure retailers follow Tennessee laws prohibiting the sale of alcohol, tobacco and vapor products to anyone under the age of 21.
According to the Clinton Police Department, investigators with the Criminal Investigations Division conducted compliance checks at 28 businesses between June 17 and June 18.
During the operation, an 18-year-old participant attempted to purchase alcohol, vape products or tobacco using a valid Tennessee-issued identification card that clearly indicated they were 18 years old. Police said the decoy did not misrepresent their age and presented legitimate identification during each attempt.
Police emphasized that although an 18-year-old is legally considered an adult, both Tennessee and federal law prohibit the sale of alcohol, tobacco and vapor products to anyone younger than 21.
“A reminder to local businesses: While an 18-year-old is legally an adult, federal and Tennessee state laws strictly prohibit the sale of alcohol, tobacco, and vapor products to anyone under the age of 21,” the department said in a statement. “Checking an ID is only effective if clerks verify the exact birth date.”
Businesses Cited for Alcohol Sales Violations
Five businesses were cited after selling alcohol to the underage decoy:
- Speedway, 2148 N. Charles Seivers Boulevard
- Rocky Top Market, 2412 N. Charles Seivers Boulevard
- Galaxy Liquor, 926 N. Charles Seivers Boulevard
- MS Wine & Liquor, 2170 N. Charles Seivers Boulevard
- SP’s Wine & Liquor, 2170 N. Charles Seivers Boulevard
In addition to court appearances, the businesses cited for alcohol violations will be required to appear before the Clinton Beer Board.
Businesses Cited for Tobacco and Vape Sales Violations
Three businesses were cited for illegally selling tobacco or vape products to the 18-year-old participant:
- Smoker Friendly, 933 N. Charles Seivers Boulevard
- Clinton Tobacco and Vape, 124 Tanner Lane
- Smoke Shop, 1115 N. Charles Seivers Boulevard, Suite 16
Court Dates Scheduled
Police said the clerks involved in the violations were issued citations and are scheduled to appear in court on Aug. 11.
More Compliance Checks Planned
The Clinton Police Department said future compliance operations are planned and encouraged business owners and managers to ensure employees receive proper training regarding age-verification requirements and Tennessee code compliance.
Officials said accurately checking identification and verifying birth dates remains one of the most effective ways retailers can avoid violations and help prevent underage access to alcohol, tobacco and vapor products.
