Police Bust 3 Accused Of Buying Alcohol For Minors In San Jose

SAN JOSE, CA — A sting operation targeting adults who agree to buy alcohol for minors led to three arrests in San Jose on Tuesday, according to the police department.

Operation "Shoulder Tap" was a joint effort between police and the state Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC). Officials said studies show people under 21 have a considerably higher risk of being involved in crashes than older drivers, with roughly a quarter of deadly crashes involving underage drinking.

"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."

The operation involves enlisting a minor under law enforcement supervision who waits outside liquor and convenience stores, asking passing customers to buy them alcohol because they are underage. Police said adults who agree to buy alcohol for a minor face at least $1,000 in fines and 24 hours of community service.

Last Friday, authorities in Santa Clara cited three store clerks accused of selling alcohol to minors. In that operation, the ABC sent minors into 17 businesses to attempt to buy alcohol while underage. Clerks face fines of $250 and potential community service hours for a first violation.

Funding for the program is provided by a grant from the ABC's Alcohol Policing Partnership.

Bay City News contributed to this report.