“California ABC agents work with local law enforcement officers to conduct compliance checks throughout California in an effort  to reduce the availability of alcohol to people under 21.  These compliance checks help to educate clerks and bring to attention the dangers of underage drinking.” – CSLEA President Alan Barcelona

VISALIA – On April 15, 2023, California Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) agents and Visalia Police Department officers cited two clerks for selling alcohol to customers under 21 years of age.  The citations were the result of a minor decoy operation in which decoys under 21 and under the direct supervision of department agents attempted to purchase alcohol from 15 retail licensees in the City of Visalia.

Those who sold to the underage decoy face a minimum fine of $250, and/or 24 to 32 hours of community service for a first violation. In addition, ABC may take administrative action against the alcoholic beverage license of the business where alcohol was sold to someone under 21. That may include a fine, a suspension of the license, or the permanent revocation of the license.

“Minor Decoy operations hold accountable those who sell alcohol to minors,” said ABC Director Eric Hirata. “Keeping alcohol away from youth is a priority.”