Palm Springs, CA
The Palm Springs Police Department, in conjunction with the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC), recently conducted a series of successful Minor Decoy and Shoulder Tap operations, aimed at reducing underage drinking, within the city. The operations took place on June 14th and June 15th, at various ABC licensed establishments.
During the Minor Decoy operation, a minor, under the direct supervision of ABC agents, tried to purchase alcohol at several licensed premises. PSPD was pleased to report that all of the licensed establishments demonstrated exemplary responsibility, by preventing the sale of alcohol to the minor.
The Shoulder Tap operations targeted retail convenience stores, where a minor, accompanied by a peace officer, approached adults and requested they purchase alcohol on their behalf. In each instance, the minor explicitly informed the adults they were underage and unable to purchase alcohol. Out of the 31 adults contacted during the operation, only one individual violated the law, by providing alcohol to the minor. It is important to note that furnishing alcohol to a minor carries a minimum penalty of a $1,000 fine and 24-hours of community service.
The collaboration between the Palm Springs Police Department and the ABC proved essential in the Alcohol Policing Partnership (APP) program, initiated by the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control. Operations such as the Minor Decoy endeavor contribute significantly to fostering responsible practices among licensees, curbing alcohol abuse by minors, and curbing underage access to alcoholic beverages.
Palm Springs Police encourage community members to play an active role in ensuring the safety and well-being of youth.
If you have any information regarding licensed liquor establishments providing alcohol to minors, PSPD urges the public to come forward. Reports can be made anonymously, by contacting Coachella Valley Crime Stoppers at (760) 341-7867 or the Palm Springs Police Department’s non-emergency line at (760) 323-8116.