“California ABC agents work with their local law enforcement partners in conducting these operations to reduce the availability of alcohol to minors. These operations help to keep our roads and communities safe.”

CSLEA President Alan Barcelona

SAN DIEGO COUNTY – On January 23, 2025, California Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) agents worked with deputies from the San Diego County Sheriff’s Office (SDSO) to conduct a Minor Decoy and Shoulder Tap Operation at various ABC-licensed establishments in the city of Poway and the unincorporated community of Ramona.

During the Minor Decoy operation, a decoy under the age of 21 and under the direct supervision of ABC agents, attempted to purchase alcohol at five locations. A clerk at one of the locations, a liquor store in Poway sold alcohol to the decoy.  The involved employee was issued a citation for furnishing alcohol to a minor.  Additionally, sales of alcohol to a minor decoy may result in administrative penalties for the licensee, including fines and potential suspension of alcohol sales.

The Shoulder Tap operation was conducted in front of three local retail liquor stores.  The underage decoy asked adults to purchase alcohol, indicating he/she was underage and could not make the purchase.   The decoy approached six adults and not one agreed to purchase alcohol for the minor. The penalty for furnishing alcohol to a minor is a minimum $1,000 fine and 24 hours of community service.