Lynn bars, stores fare well in alcohol compliance check

LYNN – The results of a surprise, citywide underage alcohol compliance check last week were excellent after 96 percent of establishments abided by the law, Police Sgt. Rick Carrow said.
Forty two bars and clubs and nine liquor stores were randomly selected Aug. 18 and 19 by the Lynn police department’s Special Investigation Unit headed by Carrow. Police sent several underage volunteers from Girls Inc. to try to buy booze.
Girls Inc. has been nationally recognized for working with the LPD in similar compliance checks over the last few years.
“Sgt. Carrow characterized these results as excellent and notes that in 2005, the Governor’s Highway Safety Bureau set a standard of 85 percent compliance for these operations,” Police Lt. William Sharpe said in a statement.
The two bars found in violation were Cesar’s Palace, 99 Buffum St. and JD’s Sports Bar, 155 Lewis St. Officers discussed both incidents with the employees of the establishments and generated reports documenting their non-compliance. These reports were forwarded to the local licensing board for review.
Establishments are forewarned by police that an underage compliance check will take place several weeks in advance.
“We have been very clear about our intentions to monitor licensed establishments for the sale of alcohol to underage youths,” Police Chief John Suslak said. “As these figures indicate, however, the vast majorityof our license holders clearly appreciate their responsibilities in this area and are in compliance. I would like to thank them for their cooperation. I would also like to thank Girls, Inc., (Licensing Commission) Chairman Richard Coppinger and the members of the License Commission, and Sgt. Carrow and the members of our Special Investigations Unit for their ongoing assistance in preventing underage drinking in our city.”