Crime & Safety
Buzz Kill: Underage Beer Sale Sting Finds Few Offenders
Only three of more than 60 store clerks sold alcohol to minors, according to the Spotsylvania County Sheriff's Office.
With prom and graduation season upon us, some teens may be making bad choices by attempting to purchase alcohol as part of the celebrations. But they likely won't find much help from area store clerks.
A sting this week by the Spotsylvania County Sheriff's Office found just three incidents were teens were provided alcohol among 61 stores visited during the operation Thursday.
In the sting, Sherrif's Office cadets from ages 17-19 were sent to stores and instructed to attempt a purchase of alcohol using their accurate ID and answering honestly when questioned about their age and birthdate.
Only three stores sold the alcohol, according to the Sheriff's Office: Twinbow Market at 9800 Courthouse Road, Aldi Food Store at 5099 Jefferson Davis Highway and the 7-Eleven at 12135 Gordon Road.
“Keeping alcohol out of the hands of underage persons is a priority of this administration and my ultimate goal as sheriff is for 100 percent compliance for all businesses in Spotsylvania County” said Sheriff Roger Harris in a release. “My concern is for the safety of all underage teenagers who may be pressured or tempted into underage purchase or consumption of alcohol. We want everyone to enjoy a safe prom and graduation season.”
The Sheriff's Office is also hosting an "Arrive Alive Tour" event at the Spotsylvania Wal-Mart this weekend to help warn students about the dangers of drunk and distracted driving.
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