Utica police conduct successful underage tobacco sales operation
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Utica Police Conduct Successful Underage Tobacco Sales Operation

by
December 18, 2023
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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.

Chris Quigley

Chris Quigley

Chris Quigley is a Staff Writer and Community News Correspondent for Shore News Network, where she covers local government, public safety, community affairs, politics, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey. Her reporting focuses on delivering timely, accurate, and relevant news that helps readers stay informed about the communities in which they live and work.

As a member of the Shore News Network editorial team, Quigley works closely with public officials, community leaders, first responders, and local organizations to provide factual coverage of breaking news, municipal government, public policy, and events affecting New Jersey residents. Her work highlights both major developments and the local stories that shape communities across the state.

Quigley is committed to responsible journalism, emphasizing accuracy, source verification, and transparency in every story she reports. She strives to present information in a clear and accessible manner, helping readers better understand the issues, decisions, and events that impact their daily lives.

Through her work at Shore News Network, Chris Quigley contributes to the organization's mission of providing trusted local news coverage, accountability reporting, and community-focused journalism throughout New Jersey.

Chris Quigley is a graduate of Stockton State University and began her career at IN Jersey, the online news and media branch of the Asbury Park Press. She also worked at Monmouth Internet, the Ocean Signal Newspaper, and JTOWN Magazine during her career in both content management and operations.

Degrees: Business B.A. - Stockton University

Experience and interests: Criminal Justice, Business, Animal Care, Entertainment, Lottery News, Local News