The New York State Liquor Authority (SLA) today announced the results of an underage sting operation conducted on September 3, 2022 in Herkimer County. SLA investigators, working with the New York State Police and an underage agent, conducted an underage-drinking operation visiting twelve licensed premises. In total, the undercover agent was able to purchase alcohol at five of the twelve businesses visited.
The businesses alleged to have sold to a minor were:
- One Dream
6371 State Rte. 167, Dolgeville - Stewart’s Shop #147
97 N Main St, Dolgeville - Ann Street Liquors
18 N Ann St, Little Falls - Stewart’s Shop #171
32 N Ann St, Little Falls - Sam’s Deli & Grocery
275 N Main St, Herkimer
The businesses refusing to sell to a minor were:
- Sunoco
4 N Ann St, Little Falls - Nice n Easy
279 W Main St, Little Falls - Fastrac Store #275
201 State St, Herkimer - Stewart’s Shop #114
260 Mohawk St, Herkimer - Cliff’s Local Market
430 Mohawk St, Herkimer - Cliff’s Local Market
412 E State St, Herkimer - Fastrac Store #229
1 W Main St, Herkimer
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, cancellations, 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 agents work under the direct supervision of SLA Beverage Control Investigators.
