GREEN BAY, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – Green Bay Police Commander Kevin Warych tells FOX 11 they watch for it year round, but more vigilant in the summer.
“People have a lot more time on their hands. They’re not in school, college isn’t in session, people are outside, a lot of festivals and unfortunately, people are getting cited for underage drinking.”
Warych said this is usually the time of year where they ramp up patrols and increase their presence, especially in the downtown area.
“We have officers on beat patrol who are on grant overtime to enforce and deter violent crime but look for all ordinances. So if they come across someone underage they could face a citation.”
In 2018, 39 citations were issued for underage drinking or alcohol possession between June 1st and September 1st. Of those citations, four were issued at a licensed bar or restaurant, which Commander Warych said doesn’t happen very often.
“Our community police officers work closely with bar owners. They have security measures in place to make sure people are carded, bartenders are trained, and make sure people can communicate with people so they are deterred from serving people under age.”
Keeping underage customers from drinking has become a full-time job for area bar owners, many are now using new technology so they know who they’re letting in.
“But also when you’re around schools, universities, St. Norbert, UW- Green Bay and have people who are 21, 22, 23 coming in and from other states, you have to make sure your ID system can take care of other states around you.”
Because the fine for serving alcohol to anyone underage ranges from $500 to $1000, and can also land you in jail.
Wisconsin state law does say anyone younger than 21 can drink in a bar if they’re accompanied by a parent, guardian, or spouse who is old enough to drink.
