A state-wide initiative bringing awareness to underage drinking was carried out by more than 50 law enforcement agencies.
According to the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control, more than 170 individuals were cited in “Operation Shoulder Tap 2022”. ​​One of the major goals of the operation was to demonstrate the serious consequences for adults who buy alcohol for minors.
A minor under the direct supervision of a peace officer would stand outside a liquor or convenience store asking patrons to buy them alcohol because they are underage.
Adults who do purchase alcohol for the minor would be cited for furnishing alcohol to the minor, resulting in a penalty at a minimum $1,000 fine and 24 hours of community service.
​​“Unfortunately, thousands of young people die in alcohol-related tragedies every year in this country,” said ABC Director Eric Hirata. “This collaborative effort among California law enforcement agencies spotlights underage drinking prevention, increases public safety for communities, and boosts protection for California’s youth.”
ABC is a department of the Business, Consumer Services, and Housing Agency, which reaffirms that its primary goal is to reduce the availability of alcohol to minors.
According to the ABC, underage drinking has numerous negative effects and consequences associated with it. Consuming alcohol underage not only damages the brain from fully developing, but it is also against the law and is the main contributing factor in vehicle collisions for persons between the ages of 16-20.
