June 9, 2009
OLYMPIA - On June 5 and 6, four Spokane County businesses failed liquor compliance checks conducted by the Washington State Liquor Control Board (WSLCB). Officers checked 14 businesses for sales/service of alcohol to minors.
The four businesses were cited for selling alcohol to investigative aides working with liquor enforcement officers.
Compliance checks
The WSLCB regularly conducts compliance checks of area businesses licensed to sell alcohol. These businesses include spirits, beer and wine restaurants, grocery stores, state and contract liquor stores, neighborhood markets, taverns, wine bars and sports/entertainment facilities. Compliance checks are proven tools to reduce the sale of alcohol to minors.
Liquor enforcement officers conduct compliance checks assisted by investigative aides. These individuals are from 17 to 20 years old. They must present their true identification if asked by a clerk. However, they may attempt to be evasive if asked their age but not asked for identification.
Liquor enforcement officers are empowered to issue Administrative Violation Notices to businesses that fail compliance checks. Fines or temporary license suspensions can be issued depending on the severity of the infraction or the frequency with which a business has been cited. Clerks who sell can also receive a criminal citation. Liquor enforcement officers review the past two years when determining fines or license suspensions.
Spokane County businesses that sold alcohol to a minor:
Zip Trip, 15504 E. 4th Ave., Spokane
Benniditos Pizza, 1426 S. Lincoln St., Spokane
Picabu, 901 W. 14th Ave., Spokane
Hai Mini Mart, 1020 S. Perry St., Spokane
Spokane County businesses that did not sell alcohol to a minor:
KOA, 3025 N. Barker Rd., Otis Orchards
Rosauers, 907 W. 14th Ave., Spokane
HICO Market, 817 S. Perry St., Spokane
Casa De Oro, 2820 E. 29th Ave., Spokane
Studio K, 2810 E. 29th Ave., Spokane
The Cretin Hop, 1317 N. Howard St., Spokane
Eagles Pub, 414 1st St., Cheney
The Basement, 315 1st St., Cheney
Goofy's, 407 1st St., Cheney
Wild Bill's Longbar, 405 1st St., Cheney
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