A Taunton shop has been shut down after authorities discovered it was selling illegal tobacco, non-compliant vaping products, and counterfeit merchandise. Avon and Somerset Police, working alongside Trading Standards and the anti-social behaviour team, secured a closure order on Monday, December 8.
The shop, located in Taunton Market on Station Road, had long been associated with criminal activity, nuisance, and public disorder. Taunton Magistrates granted a three-month closure under Section 80 of the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act. Under this order, anyone attempting to enter the premises during the closure period will be committing a criminal offence.
PC Lydia Shipton, part of the Taunton neighbourhood policing team, emphasized the impact of the illegal sales on the community. “The issues caused by selling these items cannot be overstated. We’ve heard significant concerns from parents and residents regarding what was being sold here,” she said.
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PC Shipton added that the operations to build a strong case involved close collaboration with Trading Standards and other partners. “We hope this closure sends a clear message that we are committed to protecting our communities from those who cause harm,” she concluded.