09/14/2022 - Underage Drinking Operation in Cattaraugus County

The New York State Liquor Authority (SLA) today announced the results of an underage sting operation conducted on September 14, 2022 in Cattaraugus County.  SLA investigators, working with the New York State Police and an underage agent, conducted an underage-drinking operation visiting ten licensed premises.  The undercover agent was not able to purchase alcohol at any of the ten businesses visited.

The businesses refusing to sell to a minor were:

• Yorkshire Spirits
  12243 Rte. 15, Yorkshire
• Weber City Deli
  12231 Rte. 16, Yorkshire
• 7 Eleven Store #3510
  12223 Olean Rd, Yorkshire
• Kwik Fill #M0396
  1 Washington St, Ellicottville
• Tops Market #271
  64 E Washington St, Ellicottville
• Dollar General Store #6383
  5785 Rte. 219, Great Valley
• 7 Eleven Store #3509
  183 W Main St, Allegany
• Fusion on Main
  115 W Main St, Allegany
• Chapter 1517 IOOB
  16 Park Square, Franklinville
• Legends Bar & Grill
  5 Park Square, Franklinville

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.