Before You Agree to Buy Alcohol for a Minor, Think Again - Furnishing Alcohol to a Minor is a Crime in California
As New Year’s Eve approaches, no doubt people will be partying. This includes the underage group as well. So as you are entering the market, liquor store or another retail establishment where they sell alcohol, beware of any minors who ask you to buy some for them. We offer this warning because furnishing alcohol to a minor is a crime in California.
You “furnish” alcohol to a minor anytime you (1) give alcohol to a minor, or (2) purchase alcohol for a minor.
Many people are caught committing this crime when they agree to buy alcohol for an undercover cop who is posing as a minor. You may think that buying alcohol for a teenager is no big deal, or you may even believe that the person is of age but simply “forgot” his/her I.D. and that you are doing him/her a favor. Unfortunately for you, the state of California doesn’t look at it this same way.
California’s law against furnishing alcohol to a minor is a misdemeanor that subjects you to substantial fines, a possible jail sentence and additional criminal charges. If you are approached by someone who asks you to buy them alcohol, remember the old saying…just say “no”. You’ll save yourself a world of trouble.
