Illegal Distribution of Cigarettes or Other Tobacco Products 

ORC § 2927.02

Defined

• A producer, retailer, distributor, or manufacturer,
• Giving away or selling tobacco products,
  • To underage consumers, or
  • Selling unpacked tobacco.

Defenses

As an affirmative defense, a defendant would have to prove that the child who was given or sold tobacco was accompanied by a parent or guardian over the age of 18, or the person who gave or sold the tobacco is a parent or guardian. To inquire about other sentence mitigating factors, please contact an attorney.

Potential Penalties

The illegal distribution of cigarettes or other tobacco products is generally a misdemeanor of the fourth degree unless there have been previous convictions. As such, the penalties can be up to 30 days in jail and a fine of up to $250.

At Funkhouser Law, from the moment a client walks through the door, we presume that they are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. As such, we work hard to accomplish the most favorable outcome for each of our clients. 

If you have been accused of illegal distribution of cigarettes or other tobacco products, please call Funkhouser Law for a free consultation with an experienced, peer-rated lawyer: (614) 756-2154.