On September 28 & 29, the Wilmington Police Department sent out patrols of undercover officers specifically targeting underage drinking. The enforcement was made possible through a grant from The Executive Office of Public Safety and Security (EOPSS). During the patrols, Officers made spot checks of licensed liquor establishments as well as conducted surveillance of liquor stores.
As a result of this enforcement, three individuals were arrested on alcohol related charges:
- Azwad Anwar, age 23, of Wilmington was arrested and charged with Procuring Alcohol For an Individual Under 21 and Possession of a Class B Substance.
- Jason Turdelle, age 18, of Wilmington was arrested and charged with Minor In Possession of Liquor.
- A 16 year old Wilmington boy was arrested and charged with Minor In Possession of Liquor.
According to NHTSA statistics, in 2010, nationwide, 30% of 15- to 20-year-olds killed in automobile crashes had a blood alcohol content of .01 or higher; 25% had a BAC of .08 or higher. Compounding the problem, 71% of the young drivers who had been drinking and were killed in crashes were unrestrained. The Wilmington Police Department recognizes that traffic crashes are preventable, and is committed to reducing the number of motor vehicle-related fatalities and injuries in Wilmington because any loss of life or injury on our roadways is one too many.
The Wilmington Police Department will continue to monitor local liquor establishments. Communities like Wilmington that have reduced the availability of alcohol to underage drinkers have experienced fewer crashes and fewer crimes. Preventing underage drinking is everyone’s responsibility.