EMERYVILLE – On February 5, 2025, California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC), along with Emeryville police officers cited two clerks for selling alcohol to minors. The citations were the result of a Minor Decoy operation in which decoys, under the age of 21 and under the direct supervision of agents, attempted to purchase alcohol from five retail licensees in the City of Emeryville. 
 
Clerks who sold to the decoy 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.”
 
“ABC agents work with their local law enforcement partners throughout the entire state of California to prevent tragedies associated with underage drinking.  Their work helps to increase public safety,” said California Statewide Law Enforcement Association (CSLEA) President Alan Barcelona.