“California ABC agents work to protect our youth and to protect all of us out on the roads and in our communities.  This case certainly highlights the dangers associated with underage drinking and we thank ABC agents for their work and investigations.”

CSLEA President Alan Barcelona

MONTEBELLO – On June 26, 2024, the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) announced it has suspended the license of Montebello Ranch Express after an employee furnished alcohol to two people under the age of 21, one of whom sustained great bodily injury after jumping out of a moving vehicle on August 17, 2023. Alcohol sales are prohibited until the 30-day suspension period concludes.

ABC opened a TRACE (Target Responsibility for Alcohol Connected Emergencies) investigation immediately after the incident to determine where the underage person who was injured obtained the alcohol. ABC agents determined that a clerk at Montebello Ranch Express furnished the alcoholic beverages. The minor was found to be obviously intoxicated at a school dance and was picked up by a parent. On the ride home, the minor jumped from the moving vehicle, resulting in a fractured skull and brain bleed.

“Preventing underage drinking is a public safety priority,” said ABC Director Joseph McCullough. “We want to remind licensees and employees to check IDs carefully and help keep Californians safe.”

ABC sought disciplinary action against Montebello Ranch Express’s alcoholic beverage license for furnishing alcoholic beverages to a minor causing great bodily injury or death. In response to the accusations, the licensee signed a settlement agreement. Under the agreement, the license is suspended for 30 days.