IMPORTANT NEWS...
The Division of Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco Makes 230 Arrests in Panama City
March 22, 2010
PANAMA CITY—Underage drinkers on spring break in Panama City went home with more than sunburns this weekend, they left with Notices to Appear in court for underage alcohol possession. The Department of Business and Professional Regulation’s Division of Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco arrested 230 people during spring break enforcement this weekend in Panama City. Agents arrested 227 for underage possession of an alcoholic beverage, three for selling or giving alcoholic beverages to the underage, and one for resisting arrest.
“A strong presence at spring break is a great way to help protect underage youth from alcohol-related harm. By enforcing our state’s laws on underage drinking, we hold individuals accountable for their behavior,” said Interim Secretary Charlie Liem.
From March 11 through March 26, 20 ABT agents from around the state will be in Panama City to ensure compliance with underage drinking laws and retailer compliance with alcoholic beverage to prevent underage youth from obtaining alcohol. ABT will partner with local law enforcement and other state agencies and serve as the lead agency on all tobacco- and alcohol-related offences.
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 of Business and Professional Regulation’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 MyFloridaLicense.com.