Richmond police concerned about impact of vape shops on community safety

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — Vape shops across Central Virginia are becoming a growing concern for law enforcement -- both as victims of crimes and as alleged violators themselves.

During a recent crime briefing, Richmond Police Chief Rick Edwards said commercial robberies in the city have increased by 14% compared to last year, and 34% of those robberies have happened at vape shops.

According to police, some shops are being targeted in aggressive, takeover-style robberies because they often hold large amounts of cash -- and, in some cases, illegal marijuana.

While several vape shops have been victims, others are under investigation for operating illegally. Richmond Police say they’ve executed 10 search warrants so far this year, seizing 75 pounds of marijuana, THC products, and 10 guns.

“We talk about the vape shops as the victims. We also talk about vape shops as a concern for our community,” Edwards said.

Investigators say they're also concerned that certain shops are marketing and selling illegal products to children.

“It’s easier for our kids to buy marijuana at one of these shops than it is for them to buy a beer at a convenience mart,” Edwards said. “There’s no checking IDs, because they’re not allowed to sell it anyway.”

Edwards says the problem extends beyond the city. Departments in Henrico and Chesterfield counties have also been cracking down on illegal vape operations. Earlier this month, Henrico Police announced eight arrests following a series of investigations.

From raids to new regulations and zoning restrictions, local agencies and leaders are stepping up enforcement and turning to lawmakers for further action.

“Ultimately, we’ll await guidance from the General Assembly on what they want to do with these shops,” Edwards said.

During the crime briefing, Edwards said he plans to bring the issue before Richmond’s Public Safety Committee at their Oct. 28 meeting.