The Kaua'i Police Department Youth Services Section, in conjunction with the Department of Liquor Control, recently conducted a compliance check of 19 randomly selected businesses that are licensed to sell liquor.

During the check, employees at seven establishments were caught selling liquor to persons under the age of 21. They were arrested and charged for prohibited sale of alcohol to minors.

"The safety of our youth would be greatly compromised if liquor sales to minors continue. We urge all licensees to comply with the laws regarding selling alcohol to minors," said Assistant Police Chief Roy Asher. "We also need the support of the community and are asking them to report these types of violations."

Asher noted that KPD and Liquor Control plan to continue their enforcement efforts with the goal of reducing the current failure rate of 37 percent.

Funding for the recent compliance check was provided by the Cancer Research Center of Hawai'i.

Anyone with information about the sales of liquor to minors can call 808-241-1697 or Crime Stoppers at 808-241-1887.