ABC and Redding PD conduct shoulder tap operation on February 13, 2026

“This is great news! Twenty-One adults in Redding, who were asked to purchase alcohol for someone under 21, declined.  That’s law-abiding citizens and public safety at work.  Thank you to those who just said no, and thank you to ABC agents and their local law enforcement partners for working to keep our roads and communities safe.”

CSLEA President Alan Barcelona

REDDING – On February 23, 2026, the Redding Police Department announced the results of a shoulder tap operation it conducted in partnership with agents from the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) within the City of Redding on February 13, 2026.

A Shoulder Tap operation targets adults who purchase alcohol for individuals under the age of 21. During the operation, a minor working under the direct supervision of law enforcement stands outside a liquor or convenience store and asks patrons to purchase alcohol on their behalf. The minor clearly states they are underage and unable to legally buy alcohol.

During the operation, 21 individuals were contacted by minors requesting alcohol purchases. Not one of those individuals bought alcohol for the decoy minor.

Adults who agree to purchase alcohol for a minor may be arrested and cited for furnishing alcohol to a minor. This violation carries a minimum penalty of a $1,000 fine and 24 hours of community service.

Statistics show that individuals under the age of 21 face a significantly higher risk of being involved in traffic collisions than older drivers. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), approximately 25 percent of fatal crashes involve underage drinking.