SAVANNAH, GA (July 29, 2019) – An operation into underage alcohol sales by Savannah Police’s Alcohol Beverage Compliance (ABC) Unit resulted in 12 out of 23 businesses failing.
During the operation, which ran from July 24-26, underage subjects visited 23 businesses, ranging from restaurants to convenience stores, to determine if they comply with Georgia law in regard to alcohol sales.
Out of the 23, 12 failed the operation. The managers or licensees of the establishments were notified of the alcohol sold, that the buyer was underage, if the buyer was checked for identification, how the alcohol was served or sold, and what actions would be taken by law enforcement. The Georgia Department of Revenue Alcohol and Tobacco Division will follow up with the businesses on fines they will face as a result of the failure.
The ABC Unit plans to remain vigilant in its efforts to curb underage sales and plans to continue to conduct operations regarding underage alcohol sales and overconsumption. Businesses are urged to train their staff on the law and the implications of failure to comply.
The 11 businesses that passed will receive letters of congratulations from the Savannah Police Department.
According to the City of Savannah’s Alcohol Beverage Ordinance, a first offense results in a minimum fine of $500; second offense, if within 12 months of the first, results in a $750 fine; third offense, if within 18 months of the first, results in a $1,000 fine; and any further offense, if within 24 months of the first, results in issuance of a notice to appear to show cause for why the establishment’s alcohol license should not be revoked.
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