(DODGE COUNTY) Dodge County store owners can expect unannounced visits in the coming months as the sheriff’s office steps up checks aimed at keeping tobacco out of the hands of minors.
The Dodge County Sheriff’s Office says it will conduct tobacco compliance checks at businesses across the county on random dates and times. The goal, officials say, is education first — reminding clerks and owners of the rules around selling tobacco and why those rules matter for young people in the community.
During the checks, participants working with law enforcement will present valid identification if asked and will be truthful about their age or date of birth. Officials say no one will use fake IDs as part of the process.
While the focus is on prevention, the sheriff’s office says citations will be issued if a business is found selling tobacco products to someone who is underage. Those violations fall under a county ordinance that mirrors Wisconsin state law governing tobacco sales.
The sheriff’s office is also reminding business owners that they are responsible for making sure employees are properly trained on how to legally sell tobacco products. That includes knowing when to ask for ID and when to refuse a sale.
Officials say the checks are part of a broader effort to keep the community safe and to make sure businesses understand and follow the law — not to catch anyone by surprise, but to prevent problems before they happen.
