Summer concerts are a favorite of New Yorkers, especially at the state’s numerous outdoor venues when the weather is warm. Local law enforcement took this as an opportunity to target those who are drinking underage with Operation Prevent. Law enforcement knows that concerts are a common location for underage drinking, as many people participate in tailgating and try to use fake ID’s to purchase additional alcoholic beverages throughout the course of the concert.
Operation Prevent resulted in nearly 150 arrests of underage drinkers across the state. Law enforcement targeted concert venues such as the Darien Lake Performing Arts Center, Marvin Sands/Constellation Brands Performing Arts Center, Saratoga Performing Arts Center, Jones Beach Theater, and the Lakeview Amphitheater. The majority of arrests took place at the Chance the Rapper concert on May 31, with 71 people arrested. 39 of those were using fake Id’s to purchase alcohol at the Darien Lake venue, 27 arrests were for unlawfully drinking alcohol underage, and 5 people were charged with the unlawful possession of marijuana. In addition to the arrests, police recovered 41 fake IDs.
The primary goal of Operation Prevent is to stop people under 21 from unlawfully purchasing and consuming alcohol. In addition, law enforcement also aims to prevent people from drinking and driving, putting the lives of the drivers and everyone else on the road at risk.
If you have been charged with underage drinking or an underage DUI charge, you are facing serious consequences. You should consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney who can defend you and work to protect your future.
If you are in need of experienced legal counsel in New York State, please contact Grunwald & Seman, P.C. and we would be happy to assist you.
