“It is important to routinely conduct these operations throughout the state to be sure clerks are complying with rules and regulations and checking IDs before allowing the purchase of alcohol by someone underage.   This contributes to the safety of all of us.”

CSLEA President Alan Barcelona

EMERYVILLE – On December 16, 2024, California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) agents and Emeryville Police Department officers cited a clerk for selling alcohol to minors during a minor decoy operation. 

The operation targeted seven retail licensees in the City of Emeryville.  During the operation, an underage decoy attempted to purchase alcohol.  Clerks at six locations denied the purchase.

Clerks who sell to a minor face a minimum fine of $250, and 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 a minor. That may include a fine, suspension, or the permanent revocation of the license.
 
“Businesses should always check IDs of youthful customers before selling alcohol,” said ABC Director Joseph McCullough. “Preventing access to those who are not old enough to legally purchase alcohol improves safety on our roadways and in our communities.”
 
Statistics have shown that young people under the age of 21 have a much higher risk of being involved in a crash than older drivers. About 25 percent of fatal crashes involve underage drinking according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).