State Liquor Authority Conducts Underage Drinking Operation in Queens

The New York State Liquor Authority (SLA) today announced the results of an underage sting operation conducted on October 15, 2022 in Queens.  SLA investigators, working with NYPD Vice and an underage agent, conducted an underage-drinking operation visiting seven licensed premises.  In total, the undercover agent was unable to purchase alcohol at any of the seven businesses visited.

The businesses refusing to sell to a minor were:

• Hornado Ecuatoriano Corporation (d/b/a Sal Y Pimienta Restaurant)
  81-10m Roosevelt Ave, Jackson Heights
• Da Gianni’s Restaurant Inc. (d/b/a Hoy Se Bebe Bar Lounge Latin Cuisine)
  78-07Roosevelt Ave, Jackson Heights
• Sfeer Deli Corp.
  37-71 79^th St, Jackson Heights
• Leopolod Barrera (d/b/a Cibao Grocery)
  99-04 Northern Blvd, Corona
• Encanto Mexicano Lounge Inc
  99-10 Northern Blvd, Corona
• LCLE Bar Corp.
  136-17 41^st Ave, 2^nd Floor, Flushing
• Bermeo Food Corp. (d/b/a El Manaba Restaurant)
  341 St. Nicholas Ave, Ridgewood

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.