State police have arrested more than a dozen people in what officials are calling the largest criminal vape enforcement action in New York history.
Dubbed Operation Vapers’ Dozen, the statewide sweep targeted 12 online vape distributors accused of illegally shipping flavored e-cigarettes and other vapor products across New York. Police filed 38 criminal charges, with more expected in the coming days.
“These companies built their business models around breaking New York’s laws and targeting our kids — now, we’re holding them accountable,” Governor Kathy Hochul said.
The arrests follow a months-long investigation by the State Health Department’s Bureau of Investigations. Undercover online purchases revealed widespread violations of state law, including the shipment of fruit, candy, and soda-flavored vapes designed to appeal to teens. Some even included tech-style features like digital screens, mimicking smartphones or video games.
Charges span statewide
The criminal charges include unlawful shipment and transport of vapor products—a Class A misdemeanor. Repeat offenders could face felony charges.
The 12 targeted businesses spanned nearly every region of the state, from the Capital Region and Western New York to Long Island and all five boroughs of New York City. Some operated brick-and-mortar stores while also selling online.
Arrested businesses include:
New York City
- Vaporush (Manhattan)
- ePuffer (Manhattan & Brooklyn)
- Vape4Style (Brooklyn)
- Beyond Vape (Bronx)
- NYC Glass 718 (Staten Island)
Long Island
- Vaperdudes (JPL Development Inc.)
- Shinnecock Vape Shop
Capital Region
- Nicless Vape (Albany & Fulton Counties)
- Delta 8 Geek (Albany, Fulton & Warren Counties)
Western New York
- Wet Vapes (Erie & Niagara Counties)
Central NY/Mohawk Valley
- Adirondack Vapor (Oneida County)
A twelfth distributor has been identified, but charges are still pending.
Aimed at protecting youth
State officials say illegal vape shipments often reach underage buyers and bypass age verification. The crackdown is part of a broader push to reduce youth vaping as students return to school.
“These arrests are a direct result of the state’s dedication to decreasing vaping, especially among young people,” said State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald.
Superintendent Steven G. James of the New York State Police added, “Several unlawful shipments are landing in the hands of buyers under the age of 21. This will simply not be tolerated.”
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