A joint operation by Essex Police and Trading Standards Officers in the Brentwood area has revealed that half the off licences they targeted, had been selling alcohol to under age children.

A 15 year old successfully managed to buy alcohol in four out of eight Brentwood off licences tested by police in the recent operation.

As a result, all shop staff involved were formally interviewed at Brentwood Police Station.

Three have received formal cautions and one was formally warned for the offence of selling alcohol to a person under 18 years.

Harlow Division Police Licensing Officer, John Cousins said: "Offences and nuisances committed by people, especially the young, are often as a result of alcohol abuse. It is disappointing that we found youngsters being sold alcohol despite licensees and staff being fully aware of their responsibilities."

The operation involving controlled test purchases using teenagers under the age of 18, was launched to test specific premises following intelligence received by Brentwood Police.

Essex County Council and Essex Police say they are committed to working together to combat illegal sales to young people and alcohol related disorder by using the strategy of 'Juvenile Test Purchasing.'

Act Sgt Welch from Brentwood Police said further test purchasing operations are being planned in the near future.

Published Thursday January 22, 2004

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