Columbia business issued CID by AG Bailey, accused of deceptive business practices involving e-cigarettes
COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)
Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey on Wednesday issued a civil investigative demand to four Missouri businesses, including one in Columbia.
In a press release, Bailey stated he launched an investigation into illegal vape and marijuana products after claiming the state received reports that “distributors were potentially violating the Missouri Merchandising Practices Act.”
One of the CIDs was issued to Tariq Zeiadeah and Vape Society Supplies, which has an address in the 3100 block of South Old Highway 63 in Columbia. Other CIDs issued include Cara Buchanan, who is doing business as Smoke Smart LLC in Wentzville; American Shaman Manufacturing, Inc. in Kansas City; and CBD Kratom Connect LLC in St. Louis.
Bailey is accusing the Columbia business of deceptive business practices in the sale of e-cigarettes and vapes. Other businesses listed were accused of selling Delta-8 products "in illegal means."
Documents and information have been requested from the businesses and are due by May 10. Information includes identifying business owners, officers, executives, organizational charts, etc.; as well as all locations where business is conducted on or after Jan. 1, including internet platforms; identifying products sold; terms of sale; the date in which ENDS products began to be sold, prices, units in inventory, and more.
The Food and Drug Administration had issued a warning letter to Zeiadeah on Sept. 1 in relation to electronic nicotine delivery system and e-liquid products.
“Our review of the website https://vapesocietysupplies.com revealed that you offer for sale or distribution to customers in the United States the following ENDS and e-liquid products without a marketing authorization order, including: Cereal Trip by Bad Drip Labs, Don’t Care Bear by Bad Drip Labs, and EB Design (Elf Bar) TE6000 Hawaii Punch,” the letter reads.
ABC 17 News reached out to Vape Society Supplies.
Check back for updates.
