Crackdown on vape and smoke shops leads to citations in Central Kentucky

WINCHESTER, Ky. (ABC36 NEWS NOW) – A major crackdown on vape and smoke shops took place this week in Central Kentucky, according to Winchester Police.

As part of a nationwide “surge effort,” Winchester officers joined multiple agencies to inspect businesses selling vape and smoke products. While several locations were found to be in compliance, three stores were cited for violations: Holy Smokes and Corner Vape in Winchester, and VIP Smoke Shop in Richmond.

Investigators say officers confiscated pounds of illegal substances labeled as hemp, THC, and Delta-9. Shop owners are now facing trafficking charges.

The operation involved Winchester Police, the state attorney general’s office, and the DEA.