1 In 3 Licensees Fail Compliance Test: Harford Liquor Inspector

HARFORD COUNTY, MD — Harford County's liquor inspector plans to keep closer tabs on businesses licensed to sell alcohol.

The increased focus comes after one in three businesses failed underage compliance tests during a recent batch of testing, according to Harford County Liquor Inspector William Colburn.

“Recent test results have been disappointing to say the least. The March 26 test resulted in a 67% pass rate, the lowest since I assumed this position,” said Colburn, who has been in his role since 2019. "This would seem to indicate the need for an increased effort on the part of the Board to address this concern.”

Five businesses failed and 10 businesses passed the March 26 compliance tests, according to officials.

These failed the test by selling alcohol to an underage police cadet:

• 510 Johnny’s
• Greenbrier Wine & Spirits
• Herb’s on the Curb
• Sunoco of Edgewood
• Wetlands Golf Club

These businesses passed the inspection, liquor board officials said:

• Applebee’s Bel Air
• Bel Air Moose Lodge 1952
• Bottleworks
• Buontempo Brothers
• Dougle Groove Brewing Company
• Island Spice
• Old School Tavern
• One Stop Liquors
• Tutto Fresco
• Wargo’s Restaurant and Tavern

Earlier in the year, three businesses also failed an underage compliance test conducted Jan. 6.

Bel Air Sakura, C.R. Wings & Things and Tacos Tijuana each paid a $1,000 fine. Officials said JD’s Smokehouse also paid a $100 fine for an Alcohol Awareness Trainng violation.

The liquor board has been looking to crack down on those violating the terms of their liquor licenses to protect public health and safety, Colburn told Patch.

In 2020, Colburn said his goal was to increase testing throughout the county. However, the coronavirus limited testing efforts.

"We are now able to continue working toward that goal,” Colburn said.

“Increased compliance means less opportunity for alcohol to be obtained and used by the young people of Harford County,” Colburn said. "By increasing our testing frequency, I hope to increase the level of compliance throughout the county.This would hopefully have a positive impact upon the health and safety of the community as a whole.”