LODI – On October 4, 2019, California Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) agents teamed with Lodi Police officers to conduct a shoulder tap operation in which decoys under the age of 21 asked members of the public who were entering stores to purchase alcohol for them.  The decoys produced money and were very clear that they can’t buy the alcohol themselves because they are not yet 21.

During the course of the operation, six people made the decision to purchase alcohol for the decoys.  The six were cited.  Additional citations were issued for driving without a license, possession of a shopping cart, and possession of an open alcoholic beverage container. One of the subjects was booked for being under the influence of a controlled substance.

“People who choose to furnish alcohol to those under 21 are not doing anyone any favors,” said California Statewide Law Enforcement Association (CSLEA) President Alan Barcelona.  “ABC agents routinely conduct these decoy operations to educate the public about underage drinking laws and to protect all of us from crimes and accidents associated with underage drinking.  I thank them for recognizing the dangers and their commitment to enforcing ABC laws.”