3 Groton-Area Bars Fail Underage Alcohol Checks, Police Say

GROTON, CT — Groton police say three local bars sold alcohol to people under 21 during surprise checks earlier this month.

Police worked with state liquor officials and a local prevention group to carry out the inspections on Thursday, Jan. 7. The checks were unannounced and took place at bars and restaurants across the town that sell or serve alcohol.

Officials said the goal was to make sure businesses are following state law, which bans alcohol sales to anyone under 21.

In total, 10 businesses were checked. Police said three failed by selling or serving alcohol to underage volunteers working with officers.

The businesses that failed the checks were Game Time Sports Bar at 577 Route 12 in Groton, The Harp and Hound at 4 Pearl St. in Mystic, and Milestone at 12 Water St. in Mystic.

Police said managers at those locations were told which employees made the sales. State officials observed the transactions inside the businesses, police said.

No single area or type of business was targeted during the checks, according to police.

The results were sent to state liquor officials and the local health district. Further action could be taken by the state.

The results of the inspections were sent to the State of Connecticut Liquor Control Division and Ledge Light Health District for possible further administrative action, police said.