Follow up Operations Finds More Bars in Compliance

The Key West Police Special Investigations Unit, following up on several citations for selling alcohol to minors, found most of the bars in compliance last week. In June four local bar employees received notices to appear for selling alcohol to minors during a two-day alcohol compliance check operation.

Don’s Place Liquor Store, Old Town Wine and Spirits (Bare Assets), and Conch Town Liquor were all found to be incompliance with the law.

However, Samantha Romeo, an employee at Shorty’s Market was cited for selling to a minor. In June Renae Francis, another employee of Shorty’s Market was also cited for selling alcohol to a minor.

Detectives conduct these undercover checks periodically to ensure that purveyors of alcohol comply with Florida law by checking ID and refraining from selling alcohol to minors. According to statute, anyone who sells alcoholic beverages to a minor may face a fine of up to $500 and up to 60 days in jail. In addition, courts may add a fine, suspension, or revocation of license. The first violation by the vendor can carry a $1,000 fine and a seven-day license suspension. Penalties are then increased for subsequent violations.

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