Authorities say 16 metro businesses were cited for selling booze to minors during the latest round of compliance checks.
The two-day campaign was conducted May 17th and 18th in Douglas and Sarpy counties. A total of 242 outlets were checked.
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Omaha Police Sgt. Alan Reyes says, "We're in the middle of the high school graduation season, which typically leads to an increase in underage drinking. Businesses need to be on the lookout for youth attempting to purchase alcohol, as well as adults procuring alcohol on their behalf."
El 7 Mares, on south 24th Street, was among those found in violation. They've pleaded guilty to selling to minors within the past four years and as a result, a guilty finding by the Nebraska Liquor Control Commission for the latest citation could result in two mandatory days of closure and 20 days of suspension.
The other 15 businesses found in violation are facing their first sale to a minor within the last four years. If found guilty by the LCC, these businesses would be facing 10-20 days of suspension.
Thirty-four officers from the Douglas County Sheriff's Office, La Vista Police Department, Nebraska State Patrol, Omaha Police Department, and Sarpy County Sheriff's Office participated in the two-day, enhanced underage drinking enforcement effort.
To assist in reporting underage drinking or adults providing alcohol to minors, call the statewide tip line at 1-866-Must-B-21 (687-8221). It's anonymous. Individuals are urged to call 911 to report an underage drinking party in progress.