Multi-town compliance checks uncover stores that sold liquor to a minor; nearly one-third of stores failed by selling to a minor.

Over the weekend, agents from the Department of Consumer Protection Division of Liquor Control collaborated with state and local police to conduct a series of alcohol compliance checks in 13 Connecticut towns. Of 39 stores tested in the undercover operation, 12 were cited for selling alcohol to a minor, Department Commissioner Jerry Farrell, Jr. said today.

On the afternoon of Saturday, June 5, Liquor Control agents collaborated with officers from the Madison Police Department to conduct a series of compliance checks in Madison. Of the fourteen premises tested, nine passed by not selling alcoholic liquor to one of the minor volunteers. The five premises that sold alcoholic liquor and thus failed Saturday’s compliance checks are:

•    LL Lowries Pub and Grille, 51 Boston Post Road, Madison

•    Stop and Shop Supermarket, 136 Sampson Rock, Madison

•    Roberts Food Center, 514 Old Toll Road, Madison

•    East River Package Store, 270 Boston Post Road, Madison

•    Franco’s Wine and Liquors, 44 Boston Post Road, Madison

“Since we’re in the middle of prom season throughout Connecticut, now more than ever I urge all of our permit holders to increase their diligence and scrutiny when selling or providing alcoholic liquor to their patrons and customers,” Commissioner Farrell said.

Other towns tested included Thompson, Danielson, Dayville, Putnam, Pomfret, Hampton, Chaplin, Killingly, Sterling, Brooklyn, Canterbury, and Scotland.

In those towns, a total of 25 package stores and grocery stores licensed to sell beer were tested for compliance. Two volunteer youths were provided by the Governor’s Prevention Partnership.

Eighteen of the stores passed by not selling to one of the volunteer minors, while seven failed.

Stores that fail a compliance check are charged with sale of alcohol to a minor and brought before the Liquor Control Commission for an administrative hearing, at which time each may address the charges.  The Commission may levy administrative sanctions and civil penalties.