SAVANNAH, GA (May 10, 2019) – A recent operation into underage drinking sales by Savannah Police’s Alcohol Beverage Compliance Unit (ABC) resulted in six business failing and five passing.
During the operation, underage subjects visited 11 businesses, ranging from restaurants and bars to convenience and package stores, to determine if they comply with Georgia law and the Savannah City Ordinance concerning alcohol sales.
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 be informed of the results of the operation.
The ABC Unit will continue to conduct operations throughout the year and encourages businesses to continue educating employees on the proper checking of identification cards. “We are happy that five businesses passed this operation, but our goal is to have all our businesses pass,” said Lt. Shinita Young, commander of the unit.
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.
Businesses that were cited:
- Café at City Market-224 W. St Julian St.
- B&D Burgers-209 W. Congress St.
- McDonough’s-21 E. McDonough St.
- Green Fire Pizza-236 Drayton St.
- Mellow Mushroom-11 W. Liberty St.
- Rancho Alegre Cuban Restaurant-402 Martin Luther King Blvd.
The following businesses passed the operation and will receive a congratulations letter acknowledging their efforts to be in compliance with local and state law:
- Wet Willies – 20 Jefferson St.
- The Shrimp Factory- 313 E. River St.
- Barracudas Bobs- 19 E River St.
- Jalapenos-7 E. Broughton St.
- Spanky’s-317 E. River St.
