TABC to crack down on underage drinking

BEAUMONT - From Southeast Texas Regional Planning Commission - 

The Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) will be working with local law enforcement to conduct more Alcohol Compliance Checks over the next few months.  Hardin, Jefferson, and Orange counties will be covered by the increased enforcement.  Jefferson County Sheriff’s Department, Nederland Police Department, Port Arthur Police Department, and Hardin County Sheriff’s Department have partnered with the Regional Alcohol & Drug Abuse Advisory Coalition and the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission to provide these efforts in the coming months.  “It is important that we join forces with other law enforcement agencies and the public to provide a safe environment for our youth.  We need to work together as a community to prevent underage drinking,” said Lt. Debra Jones of TABC. 

Alcohol Compliance Checks are investigations into the purchase of alcohol by minors from bars, restaurants, convenience stores, liquor stores and any establishment that sells alcohol.  The sting operations involve undercover officers and a minor, age 18 or under.  The minor must have a valid ID and present it if asked.  They also must state their real age if asked.  If the minor is allowed to purchase alcohol, law enforcement can file charges against the clerk for Sale to a Minor, which is a Class A Misdemeanor.  In addition, the establishment can receive a civil penalty from the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission.

Licensed retailers in the 3-county area will receive letters notifying them of the increase in Compliance Checks.  They have also been informed of Server-Seller trainings offered in the community to better educate their staff about the laws concerning selling alcohol to minors.  Responsible businesses that refuse to sell to underage buyers will be commended. 

Illegal alcohol use by underage persons contributes to crime, car crashes, injuries, and deaths.  Law enforcement officers find that alcohol also has a role in many of the minor crimes and nuisances that degrade the quality of life in our community.  Many noise complaints, vandalisms, littering, and similar nuisances involve young people who have been drinking.  Public health officials report that alcohol use and abuse is also connected with teenage pregnancy, sexually transmitted diseases, and other health problems.  “We have learned that our youth and the community are safer and healthier when they don’t start using alcohol until after age 21,” says Lt. Jones.