Six arrested in Modesto police ‘shoulder tap’ operation targeting sales to minors
Six people were arrested earlier this month in Modesto during a police operation aimed at preventing adults from buying alcohol for minors, authorities said.
The Modesto Police Department said the arrests were made March 14 as part of a “shoulder tap” operation, which targets adults who purchase alcohol on behalf of people under 21.
In the operation, a minor working under the supervision of law enforcement stands outside liquor or convenience stores and asks customers to buy alcohol for them. The minor makes it clear they are underage and cannot legally purchase alcohol, police said.
Six suspects were arrested on suspicion of furnishing alcohol to a minor. A seventh person was arrested on unrelated charges, according to police.
“Underage drinking harms our community,” Lt. Joseph Bottoms said in a statement. “Preventing the sale of alcohol to minors will help to increase public safety and make our roads safer.”
Authorities said adults who agree to buy alcohol for someone under 21 can be arrested and cited. The penalty includes a minimum $1,000 fine and at least 24 hours of community service.
The operation was conducted with support from the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control through its Alcohol Policing Partnership grant program.
State officials say such enforcement efforts are aimed at reducing underage drinking and related crashes. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, about 25% of fatal crashes involve underage drinking.
Police said similar operations will continue as part of ongoing efforts to curb illegal alcohol sales and improve public safety.
