The San Mateo Police Department and the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control have conducted multiple joint compliance operations using underage decoys to ensure retailers prevent the sale of alcohol to minors.
San Mateo, CA – December 16, 2025- The San Mateo Police Department (SMPD) continues its partnership with the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) and the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) through the Minor Decoy/Shoulder Tap Grant Project. This initiative is designed to ensure that local alcohol retailers and adult community members comply with state law by preventing the illegal sale or furnishing of alcohol to minors.
On November 21, 2025, SMPD and ABC conducted joint Minor Decoy and Shoulder Tap compliance operations. During the Minor Decoy operation, underage decoys entered licensed establishments in an attempt to purchase alcohol. Seven establishments were visited, and all seven properly refused the sale of alcohol to minors. During the Shoulder Tap operation, underage decoys positioned outside licensed establishments asked adults to purchase alcohol on their behalf. Eight locations were monitored, resulting in one community member being issued a citation for furnishing alcohol to a minor.
On December 9, 2025, SMPD and ABC conducted an additional Minor Decoy operation, visiting three licensed establishments. All three establishments denied the sale of alcohol to underage decoys, demonstrating full compliance with state alcohol laws.
This project is part of the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control’s Minor Decoy/Shoulder Tap Grant Project, funded by the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
The San Mateo Police Department encourages anyone with information regarding the unlawful sale of alcoholic beverages to contact us or their local law enforcement agency. Community cooperation plays a vital role in protecting public safety and ensuring compliance with the law. By working together, we can help prevent alcohol-related harm and keep our neighborhoods safe.
