'Bad Idea': Prom Party Warning As North Shore Teens Prepare To Celebrate This Spring

SALEM, MA — Essex County District Attorney Paul Tucker is issuing some stern reminders to North Shore families about the potential consequences of providing alcohol or drugs to teens as prom and graduation season approach.

Under Massachusetts law, the DA's Office said, a social host is anyone who is in control of the premises and who furnishes alcohol or allows it to be consumed on the property.

"Some parents or teens might think, 'It's not a problem if it is in our controlled home environment,'" Tucker said in a news release on Monday. "Bad idea."

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He said that permitting the consumption of alcohol for guests under 21 may result in a fine of up to $2,000, one year in prison, or both.

Tucker also advised teens that, under Massachusetts' Law, a person under 21 years of age who, in good faith, seeks medical assistance for someone experiencing alcohol-related incapacitation shall not be charged or prosecuted.

Likewise, he said, a person who, in good faith, seeks medical aid for someone experiencing a drug-related overdose shall not be charged or prosecuted for possession of a controlled substance.

"So there is never a reason to abandon a friend or classmate who needs help," he said.

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Tucker advised parents to talk with students about making a proactive plan for if they found themselves in a risky situation.

"Texting, calling, or moving to a safe location may be good options," Tucker says. "As a parent, you have a major influence on the decisions your child makes."

He said there are many ways for teens to throw or attend a good party without drugs or alcohol involved.

"Your future is more important than any one night or party," Tucker said. "When you make safe and healthy choices, you afford yourself the ability to attend many more parties in the years to come."