San Luis Obispo Police arrest clerks in alcohol sales sting
Operations occurred over three consecutive Thursdays in May and June
– On three consecutive Thursdays, May 22, May 29 and June 5, the San Luis Obispo police department, assisted by agents from the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control, conducted minor decoy and shoulder tap operations focusing on alcohol sales to minors.
During a minor decoy operation, a person under 21 years old, supervised directly by law enforcement, enters a grocery, liquor, or convenience store and attempts to purchase alcohol. The minor truthfully states their age and presents their actual identification if asked.
During a shoulder tap operation, a minor under direct supervision approaches people outside stores and asks them to purchase alcohol on their behalf.
On May 22, police attempted minor decoy operations at 30 locations. One store clerk was arrested at Vons, 3900 Broad Street.
On May 29, during the shoulder tap operation, one person was arrested for purchasing alcohol for a minor.
On June 5, police attempted minor decoy operations at 22 locations. One store clerk was arrested at SLO Ranch Market, 851 Froom Ranch Way.
Officials said the minor decoy and shoulder tap operations are effective tools for promoting responsible alcohol sales, reducing substance abuse and limiting underage access to alcohol.
Funding for the program came from a grant by the California Office of Traffic Safety and was administered through the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control.
