Cops Break Up Underage Drinking At South Norwalk Restaurant

NORWALK, CT — Dozens underage drinkers were found at Saltwater Restaurant & Bar/Jayla Jayla Nightclub in SoNo on Saturday night, and after breaking up the festivities, Norwalk police referred the case to State of Connecticut Liquor Commission.

Norwalk police were notified of the scene at about 11:30 p.m., and patrol officers and members of the department's Special Services Division were called in to investigate and conduct a compliance check at the establishment.

A total of 93 underage people were found to be in the Washington Street restaurant and nightclub, and after identifying each of the young adults, police released them at the scene.

Saltwater and Jayla Jayla were allowed to continue with regular operations for the evening, but the liquor commission is reviewing the case for possible administrative action.

"Enforcement is critical for issues such as these on Washington Street and across our city:
underage drinking has far-reaching impacts, from the safety and wellbeing of our community
members of all ages, to the quality-of-life issues that it raises for area residents," said Norwalk Police Chief James Walsh. "The Norwalk Police Department will continue to take steps to deter the underage use of alcohol and illegal sales to minors."

In addition to the liquor commission, Norwalk police are also continuing to investigate the case.

For resources and information to address underage drinking, visit the state Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services website at https://portal.ct.gov/DMHAS/Prevention-Unit/Prevention-Files/Underage-Drinking, or The Norwalk Partnership: https://www.thenorwalkpartnership.org/alcohol.