Swampscott businesses busted selling tobacco to minors; third offense for 2

SWAMPSCOTT-Last week four establishments in town were cited for selling cigarettes to minors and, for two businesses, it was their third offense.The businesses were cited by the Lynn-based North Shore Tobacco Control Coalition, which conducts sting operations in North Shore communities.According NSTCC Spokesman Joyce Redford, C&L Package Store and Vinnin Square Liquors were cited, making it the third violation for both.Fiory’s 2 on Essex Street and Chuckie’s Lucky Mart on Railroad Avenue also sold cigarettes to minors. It was the first offense for the two convenience stores.According to Redford, a first offense is $100 fine, it is $200 for a second offense and a $300 for subsequent offenses.?A third offense also involves suspension of the license to sell tobacco products,” she said. “Suspensions are handled at the local level through the Board of Health.Swampscott Health Agent Jeff Vaughn said C&L Package Store and Vinnin Liquors have the right to appeal, but if the stores lose the appeal or choose not to appeal, their license to sell tobacco would be suspended for 30 days because it is the third violation for both establishments.Vaughn said he expects the 30-day suspension to go into effect Jan. 9, barring any appeals.