Leeds off-licences caught out by police ‘under-age’ sting

Special constables from West Yorkshire Police’s City and Holbeck Division recruited the help of a 16-year-old girl who volunteered to visit a total of 11 off-licences across the area to test whether staff would serve alcohol to someone underage.

Although nine premises passed the test by immediately refusing to serve the girl when she approached the counter, two premises - one in Beeston and one in Morley - failed the test.

Staff at both premises were issued with £80 fixed penalty notices.

However, because both off-licences have previously been caught serving alcohol to under age drinkers in similar operations over the last year, management at both premises will be invited to a meeting with police officers from the Leeds District Licensing Department to discuss how the problem can be addressed.

Had both premises served alcohol twice to youngsters in a three-month period, they could have faced the far more serious consequences of being prosecuted for the offence of Persistently Selling Alcohol to a Person Under 18.

The premises involved could also have their licences reviewed.

Sergeant Rob Fullilove, who leads the Leeds District Licensing Department, said: “Operations like this are aimed at improving and ensuring standards when it comes to keeping alcohol out of the hands of those under age.

“Youngsters who drink alcohol are far more likely to become victims of crime or anti-social behaviour, not just more likely to be involved, and with the warmer weather and lighter nights now upon us it’s crucial that we keep working closely with licensees to maintain high standards.

“I thank those who passed the test for their efforts and would encourage other licensees to think very carefully about who they’re serving alcohol to, because we will be continuing these operations over the weeks and months ahead.”