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Dane County Sheriff's Office

Alcohol Compliance Checks

July 22, 2008
Contact: Elise Schaffer, PIO Phone: (608) 284-6142 Email: schaffer@co.dane.wi.us
Sheriff's Office

Nearly 90 percent of 10th graders and 75 percent of 8th graders think that alcohol is either “fairly easy” or “very easy” for them to get, according to the Drug Free Action Alliance. Since April, Dane County Sheriff’s Deputies have been conducting compliance checks with local establishments licensed to sell alcohol. The specialized enforcement is funded by a grant from the Department of Transportation, Bureau of Traffic Safety, in an effort to keep minors from drinking and driving. The results of the compliance checks show that although most establishments follow the law, it’s not impossible for minors to purchase alcohol at licensed establishments. In April, 14 businesses were checked and only 1 sold to a minor. In May, 10 businesses were checked and 2 sold. In June, 11 businesses were checked and 3 sold. Last week, 4 out of 7 establishments checked sold to a minor. Prior to businesses being checked, an informational packet is distributed by deputies, explaining the program and informing the business they may be contacted as part of the specialized enforcement. Under the supervision of deputies, an underage volunteer enters the establishment and attempts to purchase alcohol. If the employee sells to the minor, the seller, not the business, receives a citation. The fine for selling alcohol to someone under the age of 21 is $501.00. ###
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