On January 23, 2020 at 12:28pm, this department received information about a male subject possibly purchasing electronic vaping materials for another male subject under the age of 21 outside of Nobles Smoke Shop on Arnold Ave. Detectives and officers from this agency responded to the area and spoke with the complainant. It was determined that the subject, later identified as William Torres, age 32, from Point Pleasant, did in fact purchase electronic vaping products in Nobles Smoke Shop for a male subject under the age of 21. Detectives approached Torres who was then quickly taken into custody.

Torres was charged with one count of the sale of an electronic smoking device to a person under the age of 21 and Obstruction of Justice. He was released on a summons pending a future court date.

As a parent of teenagers, the time is now for us to have a heart-to-heart conversation with our kids about the dangers of vaping said Chief Joseph A. Michigan. The use of tobacco and electronic smoking devices are a major health issue in this country that must be addressed. Here are some startling facts:

· E-cigarettes are the most commonly-used tobacco product among teens. In 2018, over 20% of high school students reported having used e-cigarettes in the last 30 days.

· E-cigarettes contain a liquid solution that is usually flavored. Flavors, which are appealing to children, often are things like peach schnapps, java jolt, piña colada, peppermint, bubble gum, or chocolate.

· Youth who use e-cigarettes are more likely to smoke traditional cigarettes in the future.

· Children are exposed to e-cigarette advertising in the media, and in magazines and billboards.

· Although it is illegal for e-cigarettes to be sold to youth under age 18, they can be ordered online.

The Point Pleasant Beach Police Department is committed to keeping our citizens and especially the children in this community safe. Working together and the timely flow of information given to law enforcement will help us better serve the community. If anyone has questions or concerns, or has information on businesses or individuals selling e-cigarettes to underage individuals, please don’t hesitate in reaching out to me at 732-892-0500.