DETROIT – Community activists targeted another smoke shop they claim sells to minors on Detroit’s west side.
Teferi Brent was one of a couple dozen activists who swarmed Puff Club, a smoke shop located at the Lodge Freeway and Warren Avenue.
Brent said he was tipped off by school officials, claiming the Puff Club has been selling to minors.
“The number one reason black children are being suspended from school is because they’re vaping,” Brent said.
Brent and the group went into the store Thursday (April 11) to talk with the owner.
The owner denied allegations of selling to minors and told the group he’d make sure kids were not allowed in the store.
“I think (the owner) received it well once he understood our intentions were righteous and pure and hopefully he’ll do whatever is necessary to ensure that no one that’s a part of this institution is selling vapes to underaged children,” Brent said.
The group has done this same thing to a few other smoke shops and gas stations around Detroit.
Brent said two smoke shops have been shut down because of their actions.
A big supporter and participant in this effort is Detroit Police Commissioner Darryl Woods.
“We’re going to keep on finding these bad actors, and as we find these bad actors, we’re going to fight to make sure they get closed down,” Woods said.
The owner of the Puff Club told Local 4 the shop does not sell to minors.