PHOENIX — A compliance operation at a Tempe bar led to the arrests of 173 individuals for underage drinking last Thursday, authorities said.
The Arizona Department of Liquor Licenses and Control (DLLC) and the Tempe Police Department conducted the operation at a bar near McClintock Drive and Apache Boulevard. Although police did not officially name the establishment, Tempe Tavern is located at that intersection.
The enforcement action came after multiple complaints about underage drinking at the bar.
Officials said many of those arrested were also found in possession of fake IDs. Of the 173 arrested, 165 were cited and released, while eight were booked into the Tempe City Jail.
Using a fake ID to enter a bar with a liquor license is a misdemeanor offense under Arizona law.
“Underage drinking is not a minor issue,” a DLLC spokesperson said in a statement. “These collaborative efforts are vital and necessary to reduce underage drinking in Arizona. We can all work together to make our state a safer place for everyone.”
The DLLC and Tempe police said they are continuing their investigation to determine whether the bar violated any state liquor laws.
