Three Newtown Restaurants Allegedly Sold Liquor To Minors

HARTFORD — According to the Department of Consumer Protection Liquor Control Division, a team of Newtown police and teen volunteers trained to identify businesses that would sell liquor to minors identified three of six local establishments reportedly serving liquor to those minor volunteers on September 23.

Consumer Protection Commissioner William M. Rubenstein said the routine compliance checks help his department to identify the businesses that knowingly or unknowingly make alcohol accessible to youth

“In this way, we can bring the establishment back into compliance, suggest additional education or training if needed, and thereby help reduce youth access,” Commissioner Rubenstein said.

State officials said on September 23, department liquor agents worked with officers from the Newtown Police Department in conducting alcohol compliance tests, and that six bars and restaurants were tested for compliance. 

It is alleged that three establishments failed by selling to the volunteer youths. The establishments which allegedly failed are the Pacific Asian Restaurant, 123 South Main Street, Pub 25 American Grille, 266 South Main Street, and The Inn at Newtown, 19 Main Street.

Following conclusion of the department’s investigation, these businesses may be called to appear at an administrative hearing before the Liquor Control Commission to address the charges, and could face administrative penalties.

Commissioner Rubenstein thanked the Newtown Police Department for its participation in the compliance operation and their ongoing diligence. The teen volunteers received their training through the Governor’s Prevention Partnership.