St. Martin stores ticketed in ATC sting operation

Ten St. Martin Parish businesses are listed in a report by the state Office of Alcohol and Tobacco Control on its “summer crackdown,” during which 895 citations were issued.
Cited for alcohol sales to a minor were Grand Pointe Texaco (two citations) and Zeus in Breaux Bridge, Barrons Bar and Durand’s Cafe in St. Martinville, Catin’s in the Parks area, and McGee’s in Henderson.
Statewide, 505 citations were issued for alcohol sales.
The 390 citations issued for tobacco sales to a minor included Dollar General No. 13701 in Breaux Bridge, Fred’s Store in St. Martinville, John’s Store in the Parks area, and the Coteau Holmes Quick Stop.
The agency headed by former state Sen. Troy Hebert conducted 6,598 compliance checks using underage undercover agents and issued 895 citations, less than 14 percent of businesses checked.
In this summer’s crackdown, ATC agents conducted more than double the number of compliance checks conducted during the summer of 2013.
The initiative is an attempt by ATC to follow through on its mission to prevent access of alcoholic beverages and tobacco products to underage persons, said Commissioner Troy Hebert.
Statistics show an increase in teenage alcohol consumption during summer months, he said.
“The fact we are using only 16- and 17-year-old operatives and getting this many sales is concerning,” Hebert said.
“Let me be clear, there is nothing good that can come out of selling alcohol to a minor. And if you do, ATC will hold you accountable,” Hebert said. “This permit is a privilege, not a right.” This is the second year Hebert has ordered agents to increase the number of random compliance checks at alcohol and tobacco retail outlets statewide. Anyone caught selling or serving alcohol or tobacco products to minors are subject to criminal and administrative charges. Businesses face fines in the thousands of dollars and penalties that could result in suspension or revocation of their alcohol and tobacco permits.