“It is so important for the safety of us all, that those serving or selling alcohol check to verify the age of those drinking alcohol. ABC agents work long days, nights, holidays and weekends to prevent under age drinking and to investigate cases such as this one. Their work contributes to our safety out on the roads and in our communities.” – CSLEA President Alan Barcelona
SANTA ROSA– On February 24, 2022, the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) announced the arrests of two bartenders who are accused of selling alcohol to someone under 21 years of age at the Final Edition bar located in an unincorporated area of Sonoma County at 412 Larkfield Center near Santa Rosa. The underage customer was later arrested for his involvement in an alcohol-related crash that resulted in major injuries to a man on horseback.
The arrests of the two bartenders, and an ABC accusation that has been filed against the bar, are connected to a December 12, 2021 alcohol-related crash on Old Redwood Highway. Santa Rosa police officers responded to the crash after receiving a report of a hit-and-run that resulted in major injuries to a man who was riding a horse. The victim was participating in an annual march honoring the Virgin of Guadalupe.
Through their investigation, the Santa Rosa Police Department identified the driver of the vehicle as Troy Hale, 20, of Santa Rosa. After learning Hale had possibly been drinking alcohol at the Final Edition bar in Larkfield, police contacted ABC and a Target Responsibility for Alcohol Connected Emergencies (TRACE) investigation was opened to determine the source of the alcohol.
During the investigation, ABC agents discovered Hale had been drinking inside the Final Edition bar for several hours before the crash occurred. Hale allegedly caused the crash shortly after he drove away from the bar. He was later arrested for felony DUI and other charges stemming from the police investigation. ABC agents identified Jason James Correia, 41, and Mandy McClish, 38, both of Santa Rosa as the bartenders allegedly responsible for serving Hale at Final Edition the night of the crash.
“Preventing youth access to alcohol and protecting communities from the dangers associated with these violations is a high priority,” said ABC Director Eric Hirata. “ABC licensees must remain vigilant, and carefully check identifications to prevent minors from gaining access to alcohol at their establishments.”
Santa Rosa Police Sergeant Christopher Mahurin added, “SRPD is committed to educating the public about the dangers of drinking and driving, but also holding intoxicated drivers accountable for their decisions. SRPD works diligently to investigate all crimes and partners with other law enforcement agencies to get justice for victims. The SRPD Traffic Bureau regularly works with ABC agents to address overserving patrons at local bars and restaurants. This investigation is an example of how collaborating with other agencies will help keep our community safe.”
ABC filed an accusation against the alcoholic beverage license of the Final Edition bar that could result in penalties. The accusation includes allegations the bar sold alcohol to a minor who later caused great bodily injury to another person and permitting a minor to enter and remain on the premises. The accusation could result in a suspension of the liquor license for Final Edition.
