Police clamp down on underage drinkers in Shrewsbury
Shrewsbury Police are to take tough action against underage youngsters using false identity documents to buy alcohol in Shrewsbury’s pubs and clubs.
They are warning that town centre officers will be on the lookout during the run up to Christmas for young people presenting identity documents which have been altered or belonging to older friends or relatives in a bid to show they are 18 and old enough to be served.
Anyone caught using false documents in a bid to deceive door and bar staff is likely to have them confiscated, issued with a warning letter and their parents informed or face formal prosecution.
The police will be working closely with members of Shrewsbury Pubwatch during the festive season to address the problem of underage drinking in licensed premises. It is part of West Mercia’s Operation Christmas Presence which seeks to reduce alcohol harm and prevent alcohol-related violence and disorder.
Police Constable Kevin Roberts, from the Shrewsbury town centre Safer Neighbourhood Team, said:
“We have found that some young people misuse various identity papers such as driving licences and passports which belong to older siblings or friends.
“Because of this, door supervisors and licensees can retain on request any misused documents and if necessary, the police can be asked to attend. In addition to licensing offences, the person trying to gain entry to be served, also commits an offence of fraud by false representation. Those who knowingly allow their documents to be used aid and abet the offence.”
He said the police would send out warning letters to those caught out and also inform their parents. If culprits re-offend, they face tougher penalties, including possible court action.
“Misusing identity documents places pubs and clubs in a difficult position as a check by police could result in action being taken against the premises,” said PC Roberts.
“All door supervisors are trained to recognise fake identities produced off the internet. If you are asked for id, only your own passport, driving licence or a card from the national Proof of Age Standards Scheme (PASS) are likely to be accepted.”
PC Roberts added that anyone found buying alcohol for someone under 18 could end up being charged and appearing in court. “It’s in everyone’s interest to abide by the law, to stay safe and not run the risk of becoming a victim or perpetrator of some kind of trouble.”
