News writer, Interviewer
A Milford convenience store lost its lottery license after state agents discovered illegal cannabis sales and gambling operations. The Department of Consumer Protection suspended Gulf Convenience's license immediately.
What did inspectors find?
The July 16 inspection revealed multiple violations at the Gulf Street location. Agents found cannabis products near the register with THC levels above the legal 0.3% limit. Police had received complaints about THC sales to minors.
The same day, police seized over 20 pounds of cannabis from the store. They found 2 pounds in the front area and 18 pounds in the back room.
But that wasn't all. Investigators discovered a loaded Sig Sauer .380 caliber pistol hidden under clothing in a back room. The gun had an obliterated serial number.
The store was also running an illegal $40 spinning wheel game that state officials classified as gambling.
Why does Milford prohibit cannabis sales?
The City of Milford does not permit THC or marijuana sales anywhere within city limits. This makes Gulf Convenience's cannabis operation completely illegal under local law. Department of Consumer Protection Commissioner Bryan T. Cafferelli stated:
Promoting and selling illegal cannabis products, especially where people who are underage may buy them, is a gross violation of the trust we put in our license holders.
What charges will the owner face?
Milford police plan to charge the store owner with:
- Operating a drug factory
- Possession of marijuana
- Possession of drug paraphernalia
- Possession with intent to sell
- Possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number
How did this investigation start?
The inspection was part of a collaborative effort targeting vape shops with lottery credentials. Consumer complaints about tobacco and vape sales to minors triggered the investigation.
The Department of Consumer Protection worked with Milford officials and other agencies to conduct the compliance checks.
What happens to the lottery license?
Gulf Convenience cannot sell Connecticut Lottery tickets until further notice. The Department of Consumer Protection issued a summary suspension effective immediately.
The store received its lottery license on December 8, 2023. The current license was set to expire on March 31, 2026.
Could other stores face similar action?
This case shows how state agencies coordinate to work together. The Department of Consumer Protection continues working with local officials to prevent illegal product sales.
Stores that violate licensing requirements risk losing their lottery privileges. The state takes violations seriously, especially when they involve sales to minors.
Gulf Convenience's violations went beyond simple licensing issues. The combination of illegal cannabis sales, underage sales complaints, and gambling operations created a perfect storm for license suspension.
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