Police cite minors at SLO bar during undercover operation
Case may lead to administrative action against the business, report says
– San Luis Obispo Police officers and agents with the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control conducted an undercover operation targeting alcoholic beverage sales to minors on Jan. 22, according to a recent Facebook Post from SLOPD.
During the operation, undercover agents entered four licensed businesses and acted as patrons. Agents monitored business practices related to checking identification at points of entry and the service of alcoholic beverages to individuals who appeared to be under 21.
Officers observed no violations at three of the locations. At F. McLintock’s, located at 686 Higuera St., agents observed four individuals they believed to be under 21 in possession of and consuming alcoholic beverages. San Luis Obispo Police officers detained and identified the individuals, all of whom were found to be minors.
Officers cited and released three individuals for minor in possession of alcohol. Officers cited and released one individual for possession of false identification for the purpose of purchasing alcohol.
Officers then conducted additional follow-up investigation with business staff. Police will forward the case to the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control for consideration of criminal or administrative action against employees and the business licensee.
“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 Sgt. Joe Hurni. “Conducting these operations allow us to help reduce underage drinking and increase public safety.”
“Licensees should always check identification before selling alcohol,” said Frank Robles, acting director of the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control. “Our roadways and communities see improved safety when we prevent access to people not old enough to legally purchase alcohol.”
The California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control may take administrative action against the alcoholic beverage license of a business where alcohol was sold to a minor or where minors consumed alcohol on the premises. Possible actions include a fine, suspension, or permanent revocation of the license.
Funding for the operation came from a grant through the Alcohol Policing Partnership program.
