Sheriff’s Office continues checking underage alcohol sales

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On February15, 2013 the Special Investigations Division conducted anoperation checking businesses that sell alcohol in the Upper Keys. Seventeenbusinesses were checked including restaurants, convenience stores andbars. Two of the businesses served alcohol to minors during theinvestigation. The two people were given notices to appear before a MonroeCounty Judge.

The following area list of the businesses and suspects who sold the alcohol:

·        Walgreens 99501 Overseas highway Key Largo, Fl  – 66 year old Carlos Ruiz Hernandez wasissued a notice to appear in court. ·        Bill’s Liquor store 91400 Overseas Hwy Islamorada, Fl  – 48 year oldKim Pravata was issueda notice to appear in court.
The Sales Clerkviolations are punishable with up to 60 days in jail, a $500 fine, $235 incourt costs, $75 in the cost of prosecution, and $40 in the cost ofinvestigation.

The LicenseeViolations are:
·        1st offense $1000 fine and 7 day suspension·        2nd offense $3000 fine and 30 day suspension·        3rd offense Revocation of license.The remainingbusinesses checked, were in compliance with the law.

This operationwas conducted in cooperation with the Monroe County Coalition for a Safe andDrug Free Community.