WARNING: Canton Police Issue Alert About Prom, Grad Parties

CANTON, CT — The Canton Police Department is reminding parents that allowing underage drinking at homes or private parties during prom and graduation season is illegal under Connecticut law.

In a public advisory shared this week, police said some parents may believe it is safer for teenagers to consume alcohol at home rather than elsewhere during celebrations tied to prom, graduation and summer break activities.

“Let’s be clear: that choice is neither safe nor legal,” the department stated.

Police cited Connecticut General Statutes Section 30-89a, which makes it a Class A misdemeanor for a property owner or person in control of a residence to knowingly, recklessly, or negligently allow minors under age 21 to possess alcohol on private property or fail to make reasonable efforts to stop it.

The department emphasized that providing alcohol to minors, permitting underage drinking in a home, or ignoring it can all result in criminal charges and possible civil liability, even if minors are not driving.

Police encouraged parents to set clear expectations before gatherings, communicate rules about alcohol and drugs, and supervise parties closely.

Recommendations included limiting guest access within homes, monitoring for alcohol or drug use, providing food and nonalcoholic beverages, and ending gatherings if problems arise.

The department also urged adults to prevent impaired driving by taking keys and arranging safe transportation when necessary.