“It is not uncommon for undercover ABC agents to sit in establishments posing as patrons in order to evaluate business practices as they pertain to illegal activity and also underage drinking.  We thank them for partnering with local law enforcement officers to help protect the public and keep us all safer from harm’s way.”

– CSLEA President Alan Barcelona

SAN LUIS OBISPO – On January 22, 2026, California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) agents, along with San Luis Obispo Police officers, conducted an undercover operation which targeted alcoholic beverage sales to minors at ABC Licensed businesses. During the operation, undercover ABC agents entered four ABC licensed businesses, acting as patrons. While on site, they monitored both the business practices regarding checking identification at points of entry, and service of alcoholic beverages to individuals who appeared to be younger than 21 years old.

At three of the licensed locations, there were no violations observed. At F. McLintock’s, 686 Higuera, agents observed four individuals they believed to be under the age of 21 years old in possession of and consuming alcoholic beverages. San Luis Obispo Police officers detained and identified these four individuals, all of whom were found to be under the age of 21.

Three of the individuals were cited and released for Business and Professions Code 25662(a) Minor in Possession of Alcohol and one individual was cited and released for Business and Professions Code 25661(a) Possession of False Identification for the purposes of Purchasing Alcohol.

Officers conducted an additional follow-up investigation with the business staff. This case will be forwarded to the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control for further consideration of criminal and/or administrative actions filed against the employees and the licensee/business.

“While we are proud San Luis Obispo is generally a very safe community, we have historically seen tragic and avoidable incidents result from underage drinking,” said Sergeant Joe Hurni. “Conducting these operations allow us to help reduce underage drinking and increase public safety.”

ABC may take administrative action against the alcoholic beverage license of the business where alcohol was sold to a minor, or where minors were consuming alcohol on the premises. That may include a fine, suspension, or the permanent revocation of the license.