The New York State Liquor Authority (SLA) today announced the results of an underage compliance check on February 1st, 2024 in the Capital Region. SLA investigators working with an underage volunteer, conducted an underage-drinking operation visiting thirteen licensed premises. In total, the underage agent was able to purchase alcohol at eight of businesses visited. Checked locations were based on prior complaints received by the State Liquor Authority’s Enforcement Bureau.
The businesses selling to minors were:
- Lark News & Grocery
252 Lark St, Albany - Voorheesville Mini Mart Inc
106 Maple Ave, Voorheesville - Redmill Valuemart
93 Troy Road, East Greenbush - Broadway Valuemart
616 Broadway, Watervliet - One Stop Convenience
29 Northern Drive, Troy - Wolff’s Biergarten
165 Erie Blvd, Schenectady - El Rey Mexitalia
215 Western Ave, Albany - GTB Fuel Corp 3
3159 Troy Schdy Rd, Niskayuna
The businesses refusing to sell to minors were:
- Nutting’s
1359 5th Ave, Watervliet - University Wine & Liquor
1235 Western Ave, Albany - Titanic Market Inc
107 5th Ave, Troy - Latham Beverage
601 Loudon Road, Latham - Alashmali Mart Inc
396 Central Ave, Albany
Licensees charged by the SLA with underage sales face civil penalties of up to $10,000 per violation, with fines starting from $2,500 to $4,000 for a first-time offense. Repeat offenders also face possible suspension or revocation of their licenses. In addition, employees or licensees who sell to minors can be arrested and charged with a misdemeanor. Persons under the age of 21 found to be using fake IDs or false documents with the intent of purchasing alcohol can be arrested and have their license revoked for a minimum of 90 days or up to one year. Undercover decoys work under the direct supervision of SLA Beverage Control Investigators.
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