ALACHUA COUNTY, Florida – The High Springs Police Department, in partnership with the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation’s Division of Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco, conducted a joint undercover operation following multiple complaints that employees at a Chevron store were selling tobacco and alcohol products to underage individuals.
The operation focused on the Chevron located at 18828 High Springs Main Street after reports alleged employees were intentionally selling restricted products to minors and attracting youth from surrounding areas.
On February 11, 2026, store clerk Kudamannage Perera, 62, of Fort White, was arrested for the sale of nicotine products to a person under the age of 21. The Division of Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco served as the lead agency, with assistance from the High Springs Police Department. Officials also reported Perera had an active immigration hold issued by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
On February 19, 2026, store owner Bhavesh Jayantilal Amin, 57, of Gainesville, was arrested on the same charge. High Springs Police served as the lead agency in that case, with ABT assisting.
Chief Antoine Sheppard said the department maintains a zero-tolerance policy for businesses that sell alcohol or tobacco products to minors and will continue working with state partners to hold violators accountable and protect youth in the community.
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