RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — Richmond leaders discussed strategies to regulate existing vape shops during a public safety meeting on Tuesday. It's part of the city's continued efforts to crack down on illegal vape shop activity.

The prevalence of these businesses in Richmond and the surrounding areas has become an increasing concern for residents and law enforcement.

"Our officers did an audit throughout the city -- there's 87 [vape shops] throughout the city," said Richmond Police Chief Rick Edwards during the meeting on Tuesday, Oct 28. "We have more vape shops than probably any other store in our city."

According to Edwards, local vape shops have become tied to crime as the businesses are either targeted by thieves or accused of illegal activity. Richmond Police say its officers have execu

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