Wiggins Police Department conducts compliance operation, finds four stores in violation of illegal product sales to minors

WIGGINS, Miss. (WXXV) — It’s something that affects more people than you might think — vapes and tobacco products getting into the hands of children and teens in your own backyard.

The Wiggins Police Department Criminal Investigations Division is taking steps in fighting this, and that started with the December 11th launch of a compliance operation after months of complaints from concerned adult citizens.

“We formulated a plan that included an undercover person — a minor — going in and purchasing smokeless tobacco as well as the vapes,” Sergeant Jarred Havard said. “A full operation plan was in place to make sure that everybody stayed safe and it was done appropriately according to state stature.”

According to Wiggins PD, of the eight stores investigated, four sold products to the underage minor. These include Keith’s Superstore on Magnolia Drive, a second Keith’s Superstore location on Central Avenue, Circle K on Highway 49 and Magnolia One Stop.

WPD also told WXXV that in this instance, because it was the first offense, only the employees who directly initiated sales with the minor have been charged.

“They are charged depending on whether they sold smokeless tobacco or a vape, and the appropriate fines will go with that according to state stature,” Havard explained.

Havard also said that the simple way for businesses to avoid violations is to properly train employees and stay consistent with enforcement.

“Keep it in their mind, keep it regular to them and create it as a part of that muscle memory effect, that way it’s done every single time.”