Minor Decoy Program Catches Businesses Illegally Selling Alcohol

Santa Clara police have cited two clerks and a restaurant owner for selling alcohol to minors.

In a minor decoy operation May 30, Santa Clara Police Department (SCPD) officers employed underage buyers to attempt to purchase alcohol from local businesses. As part of that operation, officers cited employees at two local convenience stores.

Additionally, police attempted to have the minors buy alcohol at a fourth location, but the bar was too crowded. However, police saw four minors — all 18 or 19 years old — drinking alcohol. Police cited the minors and the business owner at that location.

SPONSORED

The men — ages 24, 26 and 42 — are residents of Santa Clara, Sunnyvale and Campbell, respectively. They face a minimum fine of $250. Additionally, they will need to serve between 24 and 32 hours of community service for the misdemeanor charge.

Additionally, Alcohol Beverage Control (ABC) may take action against the business’s alcoholic license. That may include a fine or license suspension or revocation.

Lt. Eric Lagergren, SCPD’s public information officer, wrote in an email that he was unaware of what penalties ABC is likely to impose on the businesses.

Since the 1980s, when the violation rate was as high as 40% or 50%, departments have conducted minor decoy operations. When conducted regularly, rates have plummeted to as low as 10% in some cities.

In 1994, the California Supreme Court ruled unanimously that police may use minor-decoy operations to ensure licenses comply with the law.

“These checks ensure businesses are staying compliant within the rules of their alcohol license as well as deterring underage drinking and serving alcohol,” Lagergren wrote in an email.

SCPD routinely conducts compliance checks and inspections. A National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) grant funds the program.

In Santa Clara, 322 businesses have liquor licenses. That number includes businesses that sell alcohol for both on-site and off-site consumption.

NHTSA statistics show that minors have a higher rate of drunk-driving fatalities than the adult population. About 25% of alcohol-related crashes involve underage drinking, according to the NHTSA.

ABC’s mission is to provide the highest level of service and public safety through licensing, education, and enforcement.

Contact David Alexander at d.todd.alexander@gmail.com