“Putting clerks to the test is an important step in education and enforcement when it comes to underage drinking. Conducting these decoy operations contributes to our safety out on the roads and in our communities.”

– CSLEA President Alan Barcelona

MOUNTAIN VIEW –On April 10, 2026, California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) agents and the Mountain View Police Department cited a store clerk for selling alcohol to a minor. The actions were the result of a Minor Decoy operation. During the operation, under the direct supervision of agents and officers, a decoy, who was under the age of 21, attempted to purchase alcohol from five retail licensees in Mountain View. 

Clerks who sell to a minor face a minimum fine of $250, in addition to 24 to 32 hours of community service for a first violation. ABC may also take administrative action against the alcoholic beverage license of the business where the violation occurred. Such actions 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 Mountain View Police Lieutenant Alan Corpuz.

“Licensees should always check identification before selling alcohol,” said ABC Director Paul Tupy. “Our roadways and communities see improved safety when we prevent access to people not old enough to legally purchase alcohol.”