Community
Emeryville Police Department Conducts DOJ Tobacco Grant Funded Minor Shoulder Tap Operation
EMERYVILLE, CA – On March 27, 2025, the Emeryville Police Department conducted a successful Minor Shoulder Tap operation, funded by a Department of Justice (DOJ) Tobacco Grant, aimed at curbing the illegal sale and distribution of tobacco products to minors. During the operation, minor decoys were utilized to approach citizens outside local businesses and request that they purchase tobacco products on their behalf. As a result of this sting operation, two(2) individuals were cited for furnishing tobacco to minors, in violation of California law.
The Minor Shoulder Tap operation is part of an ongoing effort by the Emeryville Police Department to enforce tobacco regulations and protect the health and well-being of our community’s youth. Tobacco use among minors remains a significant public health concern, with studies showing that early exposure to nicotine can lead to lifelong addiction, developmental issues, and increased risk of chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and respiratory illnesses. By targeting those who illegally provide tobacco to minors, the Emeryville Police Department seeks to reduce access and prevent the harmful consequences of underage tobacco use.
“We are committed to keeping tobacco products out of the hands of our youth,” said Police Chief Jeff Jennings of the Emeryville Police Department. “Operations like these send a clear message that furnishing tobacco to minors is a serious offense, and we will continue to work diligently to enforce these laws and safeguard our community.”
The Emeryville Police Department extends its gratitude to the DOJ Tobacco Grant program for providing the resources necessary to conduct this operation. The department encourages the public to report any suspicious activity related to the sale or distribution of tobacco products to minors by contacting the Emeryville Police Department at 510-596-3700.
About the Emeryville Police Department
The Emeryville Police Department is dedicated to enhancing public safety and improving the quality of life for all residents through proactive enforcement, community partnerships, and innovative programs.
Emeryville Police Department Conducts DOJ Tobacco Grant Funded Minor Shoulder Tap Operation 
Emeryville Police Department Conducts Minor Shoulder Tap Operation
EMERYVILLE, CA – On March 27, 2025, the Emeryville Police Department conducted a successful Minor Shoulder Tap operation, funded by a Department of Justice (DOJ) Tobacco Grant, aimed at curbing the illegal sale and distribution of tobacco products to minors. During the operation, minor decoys were utilized to approach citizens outside local businesses and request that they purchase tobacco products on their behalf. As a result of this sting operation, two(2) individuals were cited for furnishing tobacco to minors, in violation of California law.
The Minor Shoulder Tap operation is part of an ongoing effort by the Emeryville Police Department to enforce tobacco regulations and protect the health and well-being of our community’s youth. Tobacco use among minors remains a significant public health concern, with studies showing that early exposure to nicotine can lead to lifelong addiction, developmental issues, and increased risk of chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and respiratory illnesses. By targeting those who illegally provide tobacco to minors, the Emeryville Police Department seeks to reduce access and prevent the harmful consequences of underage tobacco use.
“We are committed to keeping tobacco products out of the hands of our youth,” said Police Chief Jeff Jennings of the Emeryville Police Department. “Operations like these send a clear message that furnishing tobacco to minors is a serious offense, and we will continue to work diligently to enforce these laws and safeguard our community.”
The Emeryville Police Department extends its gratitude to the DOJ Tobacco Grant program for providing the resources necessary to conduct this operation. The department encourages the public to report any suspicious activity related to the sale or distribution of tobacco products to minors by contacting the Emeryville Police Department at 510-596-3700.
About the Emeryville Police Department
The Emeryville Police Department is dedicated to enhancing public safety and improving the quality of life for all residents through proactive enforcement, community partnerships, and innovative programs.
Address/Location
Emeryville Police Department
2449 Powell St
Emeryville, CA 94608
Contact
Emergency: 9-1-1
Non-emergencies: 510-596-3700