Location: Multiple locations in the Orosi / Ivanhoe area.
Incident Date: 12/27/2018 12/28/2018
Case Number: 18-16513
Victim: State of California
Posted by: Dispatch
Suspects: Cited for Violation of Penal Code 308. (Sales of tobacco to a minor under 21 years old.)
Melinda Ortega (20 Yrs) Dollar General (41162 Rd 128)
Ahmad Hamad (18 Yrs) Sal’s Smoke Shop (12384 Ave. 416)
Ahmed Sadek (61 Yrs) Alawdi Market (33143 Rd 158)
Alexandra Parra (54 Yrs) Big Discount Store (33008 Rd 159)
Graciela Valero (69 Yrs) Paradise Video ( 15858 Ave 328)
Rosa Mota (73 Yrs) Mota’s Mini Mart (32435 Rd 160)
Deputies with the Tulare County Sheriff’s Office conducted a two day Decoy Tobacco Buy Operation in which (22) licensed tobacco retailers were visited. Under the direct supervision of Law Enforcement Officers, the decoys were instructed to enter the establishments and attempt to purchase tobacco products.
During the two day operation, the above listed suspects sold tobacco products to the decoys. The suspects were cited for 308 PC and educated on California Tobacco Laws. Tulare County Sheriff’s Office Deputies will continue to conduct these types of operations to reduce the availability of tobacco to those under the age of 21.
Tulare County Sheriff’s Office in collaboration with the Department of Justice are conducting retailor Tobacco compliance checks to educate retailers and reduce the availability of tobacco products to minors throughout rural communities in Tulare County. Statistics have shown that youth tobacco use in Tulare County is above average at 15.4% when compared to California’s 13.8%.
This project is being made possible by the Department of Justice Tobacco Grant (STAKE ACT).
The cases are currently under investigation. Anyone with information is encouraged to call the Tulare County Sheriff’s Office at (559)733-6218 or send anonymous information by sending a text or email to TCSO@tipnow.com or call 1-800-TIPNOW.