Underage Drinking Parties: Greenwich PD Issues Warning To Parents

GREENWICH, CT — With graduations and other celebrations in full effect, the Greenwich Police Department is joining Darien and other communities in issuing a warning to parents to take precautions to avoid underage drinking parties at their homes.

"Summertime is usually a time for social gatherings and parties for young people," wrote Greenwich authorities in a statement. "More and more frequently an innocent and small gathering of young people explode to large uncontrolable 'pop-up' parties. Friends and strangers alike learn about the possibility of a party through social media and come for a good time. When these parties get out of hand the police also come for a visit."

If you are a parent or homeowner, here are some of the things you should consider:

• Criminal Charges: Parents who are caught supplying alcohol, even inadvertently, to minors are subject to arrest.
• Financial Liability: Damage to your home and property, and civil suits for damages to others property and for injuries to people.
• DUI and License Suspension: Connecticut has a zero tolerance policy for people under 21 who operate a vehicle after drinking, even small amounts. The standard for those over 21 is a BAC of 0.08 which is easily achieved.

• Talk seriously with your teen about alcohol, parties, and family liability long before it's an issue.
• Avoid leaving teens home alone overnight - wild parties can mushroom into existence without any intention on your child's part.
• Let neighbors know when you leave town.

Image via Shutterstock

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