Chillicothe, OH — An investigation was initiated on October 24, 2024, at the TikTok Smoke Shop located at 1595 North Bridge Street following numerous complaints regarding the sale of tobacco products to minors.
According to Detective Adam Steele of the Chillicothe Police Department, a confidential informant (referred to as “CI”) under the age of 21 was engaged in the investigation. The CI was provided with $40 in pre-recorded funds and a recording device before being taken to the smoke shop.
Upon entering the TikTok Smoke Shop, the CI attempted to purchase a “Blue Raspberry Breeze Vape” without being asked for identification. The transaction was completed without verification of the CI’s age, with the CI receiving the vape and $18.56 in change for the $21.44 purchase.
Following the transaction, Detective Steele entered the shop to speak with the sales clerk, identified as Hassan Saleh. When confronted, Saleh claimed he typically checks for identification but failed to do so this time because he had “just woke up.”
Saleh was subsequently issued a summons for violating Ohio Revised Code 2927.02, which prohibits the sale of tobacco products to minors. He was advised of his mandatory court date on November 1, 2024, at 9:00 AM in the Chillicothe Municipal Court.
The $40 used for the purchase, along with the vape and change, were seized as evidence. The investigation is ongoing as authorities continue to address the issue of underage sales of tobacco products in the community.
