Liquor stores busted in police decoy operation

Two liquor stores were busted on Friday for selling alcohol to a minor during a decoy operation by the Gilroy Police Department.

Of the 28 stores tested by the GPD, Charlie’s Liquors at 166 West 10th St. and Eagle Ridge Liquors at 1327 First St. were the only liquor stores that were caught selling alcohol to an 18-year-old decoy, giving the operation a 92 percent compliance rate.

Because it was both Charlie’s and Eagle Ridge’s first offense, they will likely face a fine between $750 and $3,000, according to John Carr, spokesman for the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control. Carr said that it takes three offenses before a business has the chance of losing their liquor license.

Carr said that a 92 percent compliance rate is higher than the state average of 75 to 80 percent.

The store clerks who were caught selling the alcohol were also issued a misdemeanor by the GPD. 

Police Sgt. Chad Gallacinao said he can’t remember the last time the GPD conducted an operation like this. 

“We like to do it before the summer begins to raise awareness about minors and alcohol, especially around the time of high school graduation,” Gallacinao said.