FAIRFIELD -- The state has shut down a popular in-town variety store due to non-payment of sales taxes, an official from Maine Revenue Services said Tuesday.

Stan Campbell, deputy director of the agency's compliance division, said the state revoked the seller's certificate for Jim's Variety on June 25. Owned by Jim Fitzpatrick, Jim's Variety was given the usual 15-day notice prior to the revocation, Campbell said.

Campbell declined to say how much is owed.

Attempts to contact Fitzpatrick were unsuccessful Tuesday.

"They are not allowed to make sales and continue to operate," Campbell said. "They could be pursued criminally for that."

Campbell said the state will continue to pursue the money owed by the store.

In a town that loves its Lawrence Bulldogs high school sports, Jim's Variety proclaims "The Pride of Dogtown" and "Bulldog Pride" on its signs.

Town Manager Paul Blanchette said he believes Fitzpatrick intends to sell the store.

Campbell said a new owner might be responsible for money owed to the state.

"We'd want to see the purchase-and-sale agreement," he said.

Larry Grard -- 474-9534, Ext. 343

lgrard@centralmaine.com