Oak Forest Police recently kicked off the first of its tobacco sale compliance checks of 21 businesses in Oak Forest for 2012–2013. During “Kids Can’t Buy Them Here," police survey various retailers within city limits.

Of those surveyed, two businesses were discovered to be in violation of tobacco sales laws during the evening hours of Nov. 28:

• Mobile Gas Station, 14701 S. Central Ave.
• Stop & Go, 5214 W. 159th St.

Kids Can't Buy Them Here is meant to nab businesses who might be selling tobacco products to minors—persons under the age of 18—within the city.

Each retailer who was found in violation of the ordinances was charged with a fine ranging from $200–$500. The department reminds citizens that all charges are merely accusations and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

The department commends the other 21 busineses surveyed for their compliance with local tobacco ordinances:

• Circle K/Shell Gas Station—159th St.
• Osco Drug Store,
• Eddy’s Liquor & Tobacco,
• Shell Gas Station—159th St.,
• Marathon Gas Station,
• Convenient Food Mart,
• 7-11—Central Ave.,
• Foremost Liquors,
• Phillips 66 Gas Station,
• Stop & Go Food Mart,
• Beggars Pizza, BP Amoco Gas Station,
• Food 4 Less,
• Swagat Foods, Walgreens,
• Citgo Gas Station, 7-11—167th St.,
• CVS Pharmacy,
• Rose Liquors,
• Taps Pub

Tobacoo compliance grants are funded through the Illinois Liquor Control Commission.