Agents from the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) and deputies from the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office carried out an operation in Wildomar and Lake Elsinore on April 27, 2024, resulting in the arrest of two individuals for providing alcoholic beverages to minors. The joint operation aimed to target adults purchasing alcohol for individuals under the legal drinking age.
The operation, known as a Shoulder Tap operation, involved a minor decoy supervised by a peace officer approaching patrons outside liquor or convenience stores to request alcohol purchases. If the adults agreed to buy alcohol for the minor, they were subsequently arrested and cited for furnishing alcohol to a minor. The penalty for this offense includes a minimum $1,000 fine and 24 hours of community service.
ABC Director Joseph McCullough emphasized the purpose of such operations, stating, “We conduct these operations to keep alcohol out of the hands of our youth.” McCullough highlighted the importance of preventing underage drinking to enhance community wellbeing and reduce incidents of driving under the influence.
Funding for this operation was made possible through a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, with support from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. ABC encourages licensees to participate in the Licensee Education on Alcohol and Drugs (LEAD) training program at no cost, which is available online for both licensees and their staff.
ABC’s enforcement and prevention programs aim to enhance public safety by ensuring compliance with California’s alcoholic beverage laws. Those interested in learning more about ABC’s initiatives can visit the department’s Enforcement programs and Prevention programs web pages.
For media inquiries related to this operation, please contact the Media Information Bureau. Individuals seeking a career opportunity with the organization can apply at joinrso.org.
