Galloway Smoke Shop Violated Coronavirus Orders, Stayed Open: PD

GALLOWAY, NJ — A shop owner's plans to stay open during New Jersey's new-coronavirus outbreak went up in smoke, according to Galloway police. The owner of The Tobacco Outlet faces charges after ignoring warnings to close down his store, said Police Chief Donna Higbee.

Rafi Naman was charged with two counts of violating Governor Phil Murphy's executive order to close down "nonessential" businesses. Naman's shop on 254 E. Jimmie Leeds Rd. sells smoking products, including vapors and e-juice, according to the business's Facebook page.

Police warned Naman, 39, to close his shop three times in the last four weeks, Higbee said. After three verbal warnings, Naman began operating out of the back of his business, according to police. He also posted on social media that the store was open, authorities said.

"These are the types of incidents that we try to avoid with our business owners but have no other choice in defense of our compliant business owners," Higbee said. "We want to thank all our business owners in town and hope that Mr. Naman does not require any further attention from the police department with regard to this matter."

Vape shops and the State have hit a crossroads in recent months. Murphy signed a permanent ban on flavored vapes into law in January, which would take effect in 90 days. Supporters of the law say it will keep the products out of the hands of teens.

But several shop owners expressed concerns to Patch that the plan would bankrupt their businesses and reduce options for adults who want to quit traditional cigarettes.

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Murphy's ordered closures last month also prevented smoke shops from operating curbside service. Activists and shop owners have pleaded with the State to let the shops offer curbside service as essential businesses, according to nj.com.

Atlantic County reported 30 new coronavirus cases Friday, bringing the county total to 581 cases. Of those cases, 29 people have died and 108 have been cleared as recovered as of Friday.

Read more: NJ Coronavirus Updates: Here's What You Need To Know

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