PD cracking down on underage drinking

NORTH ATTLEBORO, MASS. (WPRI) - Police in Attleboro, North Attleboro, Mansfield, and Norton are teaming up to crackdown on the growing problem of underage drinking.

On Friday, the departments announced the start of the "Cops in Shops" program. The program places officers inside and outside liquor stores in an effort to deter adults to purchase alcohol for minors.

Many stores agree, that the program is a good idea. "We welcome the opportunity to partner with law enforcement officials to combat the issues of underage drinking and the illegal procurement of alcohol. We are very enthusiastic about this program," said Chris Gasbarro an organizer of the cooperative program and owner of Seekonk's Fine Wine & Spirits and North Attleboro's Capodanno's Package Store.

Establishments participating in the program will display signs on their front windows and cold-cases with the message, "Warning: Police Officers May Be Posing As Store Employees".

According to Massachusetts law, anyone under age 21 who attempts to purchase alcoholic beverages is subject to a fine of up to $300 and 180 days suspension of their driver's license. Adults who purchase, procure or furnish alcohol to a person under 21 years of age are subject to a fine of up to $2,000 and/or a jail term of up to one year.