Police work to curb underage drinking
Lawrence - Several organizations worked together this past weekend to combat underage drinking and the use of Fake IDs. The Fake ID Task Force conducted its first official house party patrol Friday night. The officers involved made a handful of arrests. It’s part of the Douglas County Fake ID initiative. It’s an effort that’s been going on for a few years now, but over time the focus has changed. Authorities are seeing an increased number of minors consuming alcohol, not at the bars but at private gatherings, such as sorority and fraternity parties.
ABC, Lawrence Police, and KU Public Safety officers conducted the operation. They made several stops, including a bust at the Sigma Chi fraternity. A call had just gone out that a DJ and someone at the party got into a physical fight there. The DJ was cited for battery, and while there, Task Force members found several other infractions.
In all, 11 criminal citations were issued, including minors in possession, open containers, and possession of Fake IDs. DCCCA spokeswoman Jen Jordan says these house party patrols are an important way to combat underage drinking.