Virginia law prohibits the distribution and possession of counterfeit cigarettes, establishing criminal and civil penalties based on the quantity involved. Violations can result in misdemeanors, felonies, civil fines, and license revocations, especially for repeat offenders. The law differentiates penalties depending on whether the quantity is less than two cartons or 10 or more cartons.
Penalties vary from criminal charges—Class 1 misdemeanors or Class 6 felonies—depending on the quantity and whether it's a repeat offense, along with civil fines.
A counterfeit cigarette is one that is falsely branded or imitated to appear as a genuine product, and its distribution or possession with intent to distribute is prohibited.
Yes, violations involving less than two cartons can result in civil penalties up to $1,000 for first offenses and up to $5,000 for subsequent offenses, including license revocation.
Yes, penalties differ for less than two cartons versus 10 or more cartons, with civil fines and criminal charges varying accordingly.