Reading Police Plan Alcohol Compliance Checks

READING, MA — Reading Police will soon begin compliance checks at local businesses listened to sell alcohol, Police Chief David Clark announced on Thursday.

The checks may take place at locations including restaurants and retail locations selling alcohol, according to Clark. Police checks can include traditional compliance checks as well as “reverse sting” and “party patrol” operations, among other options, Clark said.

Reading’s compliance check program is backed by state grant funding. It, likewise, comes as part of a town effort involving the police, the Reading Public Schools and town government to promote liquor law compliance and fight underage drinking.

"Despite the progress our community has made, impaired driving and alcohol-related crashes remain all too common among young people and we remain committed to taking proactive steps and working with our community partners to prevent underage drinking," Clark said as part of his statement.

"Communities that actively work to prevent alcohol from reaching minors reap the benefits of fewer crashes involving underage drinking, and maintaining that success is our shared responsibility," Clark continued.

Clark said this week that 96% of reading businesses passed their compliance checks between 2008 and 2019.

He reiterated, though, that businesses found to violate state liquor laws will be held accountable.