BANNING, CA — One person was cited in Banning during a weekend police sting that targeted people who buy booze for minors.
The Banning Police Department and agents from the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control conducted the “Shoulder Tap” operation on Saturday.
Shoulder Tap stings involve underage decoys standing outside local liquor and convenience stores, asking customers to buy alcohol for them because they aren’t old enough to purchase.
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During Banning’s weekend operation, 19 customers were approached and one person agreed to buy booze for a decoy.
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The penalty for furnishing alcohol to a minor is a citation, a minimum $1,000 fine, and 24 hours of community service, according to Banning police.
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The sting was part of a statewide ABC crackdown.
“We conduct these operations to keep alcohol out of the hands of our youth,” said ABC Director Joseph McCullough. “By preventing underage drinking we can increase the quality of life in our communities and reduce DUIs.”
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