2007-02-05 17:09:02 · 5 answers · asked by Robert S 1 in Politics & Government ➔ Law Enforcement & Police
The answer to this question depends on WHO you are, and WHERE you are. If you are the minor's uncle, friend, etc... it is a very different situation than if you are a store clerk hired by an business subject to licensing for tobacco sales.
In most states, practically speaking, providing tobacco to a minor is punishable by a fine alone. However, if you are working in a business establishment, there is a chance that you can be personally liable in addition to the liability of your employer in the form of municipal and county fines in addition to criminal prosecution.
The state in which I prosecute does not equate "Providing Tobacco to a Minor" to "Contributing to the Delinquency of a Minor." The former is typically a payable offense sentenced as a petty misdemeanor (non-criminal level). The latter is a Gross Misdemeanor offense which typically includes jail. I have never seen anyone sentenced to anything more than a fine for providing tobacco to a minor.
On the other hand, I have seen local business establishments in a lot of hot water for not properly checking ID's before selling tobacco to undercover minors sent in by local law enforcement.
My guess is that if you are asking this question on Yahoo, rather than consulting your employer's attorney, you probably don't have to worry too much. I could be wrong, but most likely you'll have to drop a couple hundred bucks for your mistake --at least that's what it would be in my jurisdiction...
2007-02-05 18:55:35 · answer #1 · answered by snowdrift 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
1., Aiding and abedding a minor in possession of contraband.
2., Contributing to the delinquincy of a minor.
3., Distribution of a hazardous sustance to a minor.
2007-02-05 17:18:22 · answer #2 · answered by Chuck-the-Duck 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Depends which state you live in. Each state has different charges for this offense.
You'll probably get community service and possibly probation.
2007-02-05 17:40:32 · answer #3 · answered by Lisa S 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
contributing to the delinquency of a minor, misdemeanor, no biggie.
2007-02-05 17:16:49 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
mostly fine if u are a first time offender. subsequent times will include fine and imprisonment
2007-02-05 17:23:20 · answer #5 · answered by duh 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋