Reading Police To Conduct Alcohol Compliance Checks

READING, MA — The Reading Police Department will conduct alcohol compliance programs, which may include compliance checks at local restaurants and retailers; reverse stings; party patrols; "shoulder tap" and "Cops and Shops." Through these programs, police are able to monitor, analyze and, when appropriate, take legal action.

Since 2006, there has been a multi-faceted effort spearheaded by police, town and school leaders working with the Reading Coalition Against Substance Abuse (RCASA) to address alcohol compliance and underage drinking prevention.

Improvements starting in 2009 have yielded a better compliance rate. From 2008-2018, 96 percent of all Reading businesses passed their compliance checks, according to the town. In 2012, the Reading Public Schools passed a comprehensive Chemical Health Policy that holds high school students accountable for any substance misuse (if they are involved in extracurricular activities at Reading Memorial High School).

Reading Police implemented a Zero Tolerance Policy and Pre-Arraignment Diversion Program in 2012. RCASA's Chemical Health Education Program provides education, case management and referrals that help youth that receive school violations or diversion contracts.

The 2019 Reading Youth Risk Behavior survey results indicate reductions across all alcohol risk behaviors for local high school youth compared to the previous results. Despite this progress in reducing alcohol risk behaviors, the Reading Police Department will continue to monitor local liquor establishments.