Four charged in underage compliance operation

Four people were cited for selling tobacco products in Amherst during underage compliance checks at 14 establishments in the city March 21.

The Amherst Police Department conducted the underage alcohol and tobacco compliance operation using an 18-year-old confidential informant, according to a news release issued by the department.

Four employees from four separate businesses responsible for selling the products were charged with illegal distribution of tobacco products, a misdemeanor of the fourth degree; or sales to underage persons, a misdemeanor of the first degree, the release stated.

According to the police release:

Cindy Bado, 61, of Wellington, was sited for selling alcohol to the confidential informant at Giant Eagle, located at 2201 Kresge Drive.

Dakoia Schroeder, 22, of Lorain, was sited for selling tobacco at the Planet of the Vapes, located at 933 North Leavitt Road.

Mohammad Masamleh, 21, Lakewood, was sited for selling tobacco at Cloud 9 Vape & Smoke Shop, located at 7582 Leavitt Road.

Mian Aziz, 54, of Cleveland, was sited for selling both alcohol and tobacco at the Shell Gas Station, located at 7580 Leavitt Road.

Aziz was also charged with obstructing official business, a misdemeanor of the second degree.

“The goal and purpose of compliance operations is to evaluate the extent to which retail outlets sell to underage persons,” the release stated.

Underage persons are considered under 21 years old, the release also noted.

“The Amherst Police Department in partnership with our schools are concerned with the use of alcohol and tobacco products by our youth,” the release stated. “The Amherst Police Department wishes to express the importance of age and identity verification when selling alcohol and tobacco products.”