“Conducting minor decoy operations serves as a reminder to all who sell alcohol to check IDs and assist in keeping us all safe out on the roads and in our communities.  Underage drinking can lead to assaults, DUIs, accidents, and very poor decision making that can impact individuals and the public.”

CSLEA President Alan Barcelona

SANTA CLARA – On May 7, 2025, California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) agents along with the Santa Clara Police Department cited a clerk for selling alcohol to minors. The citation was the result of a Minor Decoy operation in which minors under the direct supervision of law enforcement officers, attempted to purchase alcohol from four retail licensees in the City of Santa Clara.

The clerk who was cited now faces 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.

“Conducting these operations allow us to help reduce underage drinking and increase public safety,” said Chief of Police, Cory Morgan.

“Businesses should always check IDs before selling alcohol,” said ABC Director Joseph McCullough. “Preventing access to people not old enough to legally purchase alcohol improves safety on our roadways and in our communities.”