In this decision from Northern Ireland, a criminal defendant, who had been caught smuggling over 300,000 cigarettes, was found guilty by a jury of conspiring to evade customs duty and carrying dutiable goods with intent to defraud. In commenting upon the seriousness of the offenses, the sentencing court referred to the WHO FCTC provisions relating to the elimination of illicit trade in tobacco products. The defendant was sentenced to 18 months imprisonment.
Government, through its agencies and officials including prosecutors, may seek to enforce its health laws. For example, the government may revoke the license of a retailer that sells tobacco products to minors. These cases may also directly involve the tobacco industry, for example, a government might impound and destroy improperly labeled cigarette packs.
In this decision from Northern Ireland, a criminal defendant, who had been caught smuggling over 300,000 cigarettes, was found guilty by a jury of conspiring to evade customs duty and carrying dutiable goods with intent to defraud. In commenting upon the seriousness of the offenses, the sentencing court referred to the WHO FCTC provisions relating to the elimination of illicit trade in tobacco products. The defendant was sentenced to 18 months imprisonment.