IMPORTANT NEWS...
State Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco Agents and Partners Make 213 Arrests
at 2010 Georgia vs. Florida Football Classic
October 31, 2010
JACKSONVILLE—During the 2010 Georgia vs. Florida Football Classic festivities, the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation’s Division of Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco agents, Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office deputies and University of North Florida Police Department officers arrested 213 individuals for the underage possession of alcoholic beverages. The number of arrests this year is less than the previous year’s 252 arrests. ABT agents, JSO deputies, and UNF officers patrolled game-related events from Thursday through Saturday, ensuring compliance with state laws.
“I’m proud that the number of underage drinking arrests decreased this year from last year,” stated Secretary Charlie Liem. “I’m grateful to our ABT agents, the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office and the University of North Florida Police Department for helping keep our youth safe this weekend.”
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. TURF was launched by the Charmer Sunbelt Group, and former NFL quarterback Boomer Esiason is the official spokesperson. Partners include Brown-Forman, Diageo, and CBS Radio. 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 DBPR’s mission is to license efficiently and regulate fairly. DBPR 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.