Arrest two during shoulder tap operation

“These shoulder tap operations are conducted throughout the state in an attempt to educate the public and keep alcohol away from those under 21.  Underage drinking can lead to car crashes, violent behavior and sexual assault.  We appreciate the ongoing efforts by ABC agents and their local law enforcement partners.”

-CSLEA President Alan Barcelona

LAKE ELSINORE – On April 27, 2024, agents from the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) and deputies from the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office arrested two suspects for furnishing alcoholic beverages to minors. The operation was conducted in Lake Elsinore and Wildomar.

In a shoulder tap operation, a decoy under the age of 21 and under the direct supervision of a peace officer stands outside a liquor or convenience store and ask patrons to buy them alcohol. The decoy indicates that he or she is underage and cannot purchase the alcohol.

If a person agrees to purchase alcohol for the decoy, agents then arrest and cite that person for furnishing alcohol to the decoy. The penalty for furnishing alcohol to a minor is a minimum $1,000 fine and 24 hours of community service.

The program is intended to reduce the availability of alcohol to minors. Statistics show they generally have a higher rate of drunken driving crashes than adults.

“We conduct these operations to keep alcohol out of the hands of our youth,” said ABC Director Joseph McCullough. “By preventing underage drinking we can increase the quality of life in our communities and reduce DUIs.”