04/05/2022 - Underage Drinking Operation in Herkimer County

The New York State Liquor Authority (SLA) today announced the results of an underage sting operation conducted on April 5, 2022 in Herkimer County.  SLA investigators, working with the New York State Police and two underage agents, conducted an underage-drinking operation visiting thirteen licensed premises.  In total, the undercover agents were able to purchase alcohol at three of the thirteen businesses visited.

The businesses alleged to have sold to a minor were:

• Arham Fuel Inc.
  4 N. Ann St, Little Falls
• Stewart’s Shop #343
  5 N. Main St, Middleville
• Cliff’s Local Market
  412 E. State St, Herkimer

The businesses refusing to sell to a minor were:

• Stewart’s Shops #175
  8 Coldbrook St, Poland
• Stewarts Shops #147
  97 N. Main St, Dolgeville
• Stewart’s Shop # 171
  32 N. Ann St, Little Falls
• The Country Store
  2114 State Rte 29, Dolgeville
• One Dream
  6371 Rte 167, Dolgeville
• Cliff’s Local Market
  430 Mohawk St, Herkimer
• Nice N Easy #7603
  279 W. Main St, Little Falls
• Fastrac Store #275
  201 W. State St, Herkimer
• Stewart’s Shop #114
  260 Mohawk St, Herkimer
• The Covered Bridge Convenience
  2457 State Rte 29, Salisbury Center

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.