IMPORTANT NEWS...

Division of Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco ArrestsiMore than 40 at Jaguars vs. Colts Football Game

December 19, 2009

JACKSONVILLE—College football games are not the only games where underage drinking occurs at tailgating parties.  This past Thursday, Division of Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco agents patrolled the Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Indianapolis Colts game, arresting 41 people for the underage possession of alcohol.  Three of the individuals arrested were under 18.

“The Division of Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco is dedicated to combating underage drinking, and arresting underage drinkers holds those individuals responsible for breaking the law,” stated Interim Secretary Charlie Liem. 

Underage drinking prevention is one of the division’s top priorities.  The division works to combat underage drinking through a three-tiered approach—education, prevention, and enforcement. One prevention effort is Tailgaters Urging Responsibility & Fun, or TURF.  This initiative aims to positively impact the game environment for everyone with tips for a successful celebration, responsible alcohol consumption reminders and actionable steps each and every fan can take to ensure that the game, and the tradition of tailgating, is preserved.

The mission of ABT is to keep alcohol and tobacco out of the hands of underage persons, to ensure that licensed establishments are in compliance with the laws and rules regulating the industry in Florida, and to collect taxes and fees related to these industries.

The Department’s mission is to license efficiently and regulate fairly.  The Department licenses more than one million businesses and professionals ranging from real estate agents, veterinarians, and accountants to contractors and cosmetologists.  For more information, please visit www.MyFloridaLicense.com.

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