Norwalk alcohol retailers lax on IDs

Nine stores of 12 checked didn’t ask for proof of age

NORWALK — Local police say the majority of a dozen local package stores and other alcohol retailers sold alcohol to customers under 21 during compliance checks last week, disregarding minimum legal drinking age laws.

Police said the inspections were prompted by parental complaints alleging minors are illegally purchasing alcohol at several Norwalk markets, bodegas and liquor stores.

With the assistance of students under 21, members of the Norwalk Police Department’s Special Services Division and Special Victims Unit conducted the inspections Friday, said Sgt. Ryan Evarts, a spokesperson for the Norwalk Police Department.

Of the 12 establishments visited, Evarts said, three were found to be compliant, meaning they requested an ID before selling alcohol.

Budget Liquor on West Avevue.

In & Out Variety Store on Main Street.

Beverage King on Main Street.

The remaining nine establishments were found to be noncompliant, Evarts said, meaning they did not request an ID before selling alcohol.

El Coqui on Lexington Avenue.

Banner Wines & Liquor on North Main Street.

Black Bear Wines & Spirits on Water Street.

Harborview Wines & Spirits on Main Street.

World of Beverages on Main Street.

Spring Hill Liquor on Spring Hill Avenue.

Wall Street Wine and Liquor on Wall Street.

Norwalk Wine & Spirits on Connecticut Avenue.

Tropical Groceries on Cedar Street.

Some of the offending establishments sold alcohol to minors multiple times, Evarts said, but the operation did not result in any criminal arrests.

Evarts said the nine noncompliant establishments will be referred to the state Department of Consumer Protection’s Liquor Control Division for follow-up.