The Hoboken Police Department’s Alcoholic Beverage Control Unit busted 10 local liquor stores for selling to underage patrons as part of an undercover operation.Â
By John Heinis/Hudson County View
On January 5th, the ABC unit conducted a citywide operation for serving underage patrons.
This operation, the first of more to come, was led by Sgt. Charles Kucz and Det. Anthony Caruso, with the assistance of two undercover Jersey City police officers who are under the legal drinking age, according to Det. Sgt. Joseph Leonard.
The operation stemmed from multiple complaints stemming from liquor stores throughout Hoboken. These complaints were for disorderly groups, loud music and the selling of alcohol to underage patrons, authorities said.
Throughout the evening, 12 establishments were visited and 10 were issued administrative charges for sale to someone under the legal age to purchase alcohol, police said.
Although summonses were issued, each establishment has the right to dispute the charges at a hearing to be held at a later time.
The following are the 10 establishments charged:
1. Village Market at 702 Washington Street
2. Cork Wine & Spirits at 1450 Washington Street
3. Blue Ribbon at 450 1st Street
4. Daniel Liquors at 87 Garden Street
5. Ottomanellis at 422 Monroe Street
6. Hoboken Discount Liquors at 98 Willow Avenue
7. Augie’s Liquors at 419 Adams Street
8. Sasso’s Deli at 1038 Garden Street
9. Hoboken Vine at 400 Newark Street
10. Yash Liquors at 1004 Washington Street
Additionally, two establishments were in compliance: Washington Liquors at 211 Washington St. and Willow Liquors and Grocery at 841 Willow Ave.
Hoboken Police Chief Kenneth Ferrante thanked the citizens who brought this situation to light, as well as the ABC unit and their detectives for their dedication and hard work that made this operation a success.
Furthermore, Ferrante offered thanks to Jersey City Police Chief Michael Kelly for his cooperation and use of two of his officers for their work and professionalism during this operation.
