Consumer, crime and safety news

A shopkeeper whose premises housed illegal vapes stashed in boxes of wine and cleaning product packaging has been left more than £2,600 worse off.

We are reminding residents of the need to dispose of waste responsibly following the prosecution of a woman in County Durham.

A couple who moved into their tenant's spare bedroom while she was still living there have both received criminal convictions.

A shop owner found with £5,620 worth of illegal tobacco products on his premises has received a suspended prison sentence and has been left more than £1,000 out of pocket.

A landlord with a portfolio of houses has been fined in court for a second time this year, for failing to comply with his licensing obligations.

The owner of a Grade II listed church located at the heart of a conservation area has been fined £10,000 for failing to carry out essential repairs.

A shop in Peterlee has been ordered to close after illegal cigarettes, tobacco and vapes worth over £16,000 were found hidden in the premises.

A shop in County Durham has been forced to close for the second time in six months after being found selling illegal cigarettes, tobacco and non-compliant disposable electronic cigarettes.

People are being urged to be aware of social media posts claiming a new dentist is opening with NHS places in Shildon.