9 Stores In Norwalk Accused Of Selling Alcohol To Minors: Police

NORWALK, CT — Nine stores are accused of selling alcohol to minors during recent compliance checks at a dozen local retailers, according to police.

In a news release, Police Sgt. Ryan Evarts said the compliance checks took place Friday at a total of 12 markets, bodegas and liquor stores in Norwalk after the department received parental complaints of minors buying alcohol at several retailers in town.

In Connecticut, proof of age showing a customer is at least 21 years old is required to purchase any alcoholic beverages, Evarts said. Students under the age of 21 assisted the department with their operation.

Of the 12 stores visited in town, nine were not found to be in compliance, meaning they did not require ID prior to selling alcohol to a minor, according to Evarts:

• El Coqui- Lexington Avenue
• Banner Wine and Liquor - North main Street
• Black Bear Wine & Spirit - Water Street
• Harborview Wine and Spirit - Main Street
• World of Beverage - Main street
• Spring Hill Liquor - Spring Hill
• Wall Street Liquor - Wall Street
• Norwalk Wine & Spirit - Connecticut Avenue
• Tropical Grocery - Cedar Street

No criminal arrests were made and the stores found to not be in compliance will be "referred to the State of Connecticut Consumer Protection Liquor Control Division for follow-up and possible administrative sanctions," Evarts said.