New York Governor Andrew Cuomo announces major progress in a statewide crackdown in underage drinking.
The State Liquor Authority and Department of Motor Vehicles joined efforts to fight underage drinking in New York. At the halfway mark, the comprehensive crackdown has resulted in 92 licensees charged with Selling to Minors, 83 arrests of persons under 21 attempting to purchase alcohol, and 92 confiscated fake IDs.
Earlier this month Governor Cuomo announced the crackdown would investigate over 500 licensed locations throughout New York. State Liquor Authority underage buyers have already visited 339 of those establishments. They’ve conducted operations in several regions, including right here in Western New York, the Southern Tier, and the Finger Lakes.
"Underage drinking is illegal, reckless, and can have life-altering consequences, and this crackdown is holding accountable those who seek to enable this dangerous behavior," Governor Cuomo said.
Establishments charged with underage sales face civil penalties of up to $10,000 per violation. Repeat offenders also face potential suspension or revocation of their licenses. Anyone under the age of 21 found using a fake ID or false documents to buy alcohol can be arrested and have their licenses revoked for a minimum of 90 days.
