During the month of April, the Monterey County Sheriff’s Office Tobacco Enforcement Unit conducted more than 30
Tobacco Retail License (TRL) compliance inspections across Monterey County. These inspections are part of the ongoing
efforts by the Sheriff’s Office to ensure that tobacco retailers comply with state and local laws designed to protect public
health, particularly youth, by preventing the sale of illegal flavored tobacco products and addressing other violations. These
efforts were funded by a grant that was awarded to the Monterey County Sheriff’s Office specifically for this type of
enforcement as well as retailer and law enforcement education on tobacco laws and ordinances.
One such recent inspection at a tobacco retail facility in Salinas resulted in the seizure of flavored tobacco products which
are banned in the state of California. They were also found to be selling the controlled substance psilocybin, commonly
referred to as “magic mushrooms.” Scorpio Imports, was issued a criminal citation for the following violations:
• Health & Safety Code §11382 – Sale of a controlled substance
• Health & Safety Code §110760 – Sale of misbranded food
This case has been referred to the Monterey County District Attorney’s Office for further review and request for
prosecution.
Monterey County currently has 298 permitted tobacco retail facilities, with the highest concentration located in Salinas.
Facilities found to be in violation are documented and referred for appropriate legal action in accordance with applicable
laws and regulations.
The Monterey County Sheriff’s Office remains committed to proactive enforcement and community education efforts
aimed at reducing access to unlawful tobacco products, particularly among youth. Through continued compliance
inspections and partnerships with regulatory agencies, the Sheriff’s Office works to promote a safer and healthier
community.
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