UTICA, NY – The Utica Police Department’s Crime Prevention Unit has completed a targeted operation addressing illegal sales of tobacco to minors, following numerous complaints.
On December 17th, 2023, the unit employed an underage agent to attempt tobacco purchases at various locations. The operation resulted in illegal sales at six out of ten visited sites. Each successful purchase led to charges against the individuals responsible for the sale.
The individuals charged with Unlawfully Dealing with a Child in the Second Degree and violating Article 13-F Section 1399-CC of the NYS Public Health Law (selling to underage parties) are:
- Muneer Hotbani, 20, at G&E, 1400 Whitesboro St.
- Francisco Torres, 23, at 711 SmokeZone, 711 Columbia St.
- Musleh Alzendani, 74, at CornHill Market, 1447 Neilson St.
- Ghaze Al- Fahad, 19, at James Street Market, 401 James St.
- Ali N. Alghaithi, 35, at Z. Zalatano’s Market, 347 James St.
- A 17-year-old juvenile at Roosevelt Express, 228 Roosevelt Dr.
The operation demonstrates the Utica Police Department’s commitment to enforcing laws against underage tobacco sales and protecting the health and well-being of minors in the community. The department continues to take a proactive approach in addressing community concerns and ensuring compliance with public health laws.