A shop located in Taunton has been ordered to close after authorities uncovered the sale of illegal tobacco, non-compliant vaping products, and counterfeit goods.
The closure was enacted on Monday, December 8, through a joint effort by Avon and Somerset Police, Trading Standards, and the local anti-social behaviour team.
Investigations revealed that the premises at Taunton Market, Station Road, had been associated with criminal activity, nuisance, and disorder over an extended period.
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Taunton Magistrates granted a three-month closure order under Section 80 of the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act. Under this order, anyone attempting to enter the shop risks committing a criminal offence.
PC Lydia Shipton of the Taunton neighbourhood policing team highlighted the impact on the community: “The problems caused by the sale of these illegal items cannot be overstated. We have listened carefully to concerns from parents and the wider public regarding the products sold at this location.
“This illegal activity persisted for a significant time, but through close collaboration with partners such as Trading Standards, we built a strong case for court action.
“We hope this closure demonstrates our commitment to protecting the community from those who engage in harmful practices.”