24-03-2025
Two Monterey County restaurants caught serving alcohol to minor
Two Monterey County restaurants were caught serving alcohol to a minor, according to the Monterey County Sheriff's Office.
Part of statewide initiative Operation Shoulder Tap, the sheriff's office and agents from the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) conducted a two-day, grant-funded operation aimed at reducing underage access to alcohol.
On Mar. 15, a minor, under the direct supervision of local law enforcement, stood outside liquor and convenience stores across the county and asked customers to buy alcohol. The minor "clearly stated they were underage and unable to purchase alcohol themselves," according to sheriff's deputies.
More than 40 adults were approached and no one purchased alcohol for the decoy.
'I commend the community for making responsible choices during the Shoulder Tap Operation and refusing to purchase alcohol for minors," Sheriff Tina Nieto said. "This shows a collective commitment to safeguarding our youth and promoting responsible behavior."
The following day, the operation expanded to restaurants and eateries where the minor attempted to purchase alcohol.
On Mar. 16, two restaurants in Salinas and the Monterey Peninsula were caught providing alcohol to the minor decoy.
"Two servers were cited for serving alcohol to a minor and now face a minimum fine of $1,000 and 24 hours of community service for their first violation," according to sheriff officials.
Additionally, ABC may take administrative action against the businesses involved, including fines, suspension, or permanent revocation of their alcohol beverage licenses.
Sheriff Nieto said the results of the Minor Decoy Operation highlighted that there are still businesses that need to improve in preventing the sale of alcohol to minors.
"I urge local establishments to remain vigilant, comply with the law, and ensure their staff is well-trained in properly checking IDs," Nieto said. "By working together, we can create a safer and healthier environment for everyone in Monterey County.'
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According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), young people under the age of 21 are at a much higher risk of being involved in crashes compared to older drivers—approximately 25% of fatal crashes involve underage drinking.
This article originally appeared on Salinas Californian: Two Monterey County eateries caught serving alcohol to minor 'decoy'
