Lawrence Board of Health suspends tobacco permits at four retailers after decoy sales to minor

The Lawrence Board of Health on Dec. 16 voted to suspend tobacco‑sale permits for four retail establishments after undercover compliance checks produced sales to an 18‑year‑old decoy.

Cesar, a health‑department staff member, told the board that compliance checks on Sept. 27 and Sept. 29 showed the same decoy was able to buy packs of cigarettes without being asked for identification. "We have 4 establishments before you tonight for tobacco permit suspension hearings," Cesar said.

The board approved one‑day suspensions and fines for three outlets and a seven‑business‑day suspension for a repeat offender. Actions included a one‑business‑day suspension for Camila (Barrio) Market at 160 Eudin Street (first offense, $1,000 fine), a one‑business‑day suspension for Raquel's Market at 296 Logan Street (first offense, $1,000 fine), and a one‑business‑day suspension for Jimenez Supermarket at 117 United Street (first offense, $1,000 fine). The board approved a seven‑business‑day suspension for Buangkok Aliba Meat Market at 352 Hampshire Street after Cesar said the location had a prior sale to a minor on Jan. 8, 2024 and had been fined previously; the current fine was $2,000.

Benjamin White identified himself as the sole representative present at the Camila/Barrio Market hearing. The board recorded affirmative votes and carried each motion; members deliberated briefly about staff training and signage after the first report.

The board distinguished the penalties by offense history: first offenses were offered a one‑day suspension option with fines, while a second‑offense location received a longer suspension and a larger fine. Staff confirmed retailers received notice by U.S. mail and that fines had been paid where indicated.

Next steps: the suspensions are scheduled to take effect beginning the business day on Jan. 5, 2026, with the seven‑day suspension running through Jan. 11, 2026 for the repeat offender.