Five stores fail alcohol sales test

Five eastern Washington businesses sold alcohol to minors during compliance checks Feb. 25 conducted by the Washington State Liquor Control Board.

Spangle Foods, Webb’s Empire Foods in St. John, Corner Chevron in Colfax, Tekoa Market and Bullfrog’s Country Store in Fairfield failed the compliance check.

Two other businesses, Rosalia Market and McLeod’s Palouse Market, passed the tests.

Liquor enforcement officers conducted compliance checks assisted by investigative aides between the ages of 18 to 20. They are instructed to present true identification if asked by a clerk. However, the aides may attempt to be evasive if asked their age but not asked for identification.

Liquor enforcement officers are empowered to issue violation notices to businesses that fail compliance checks. Fines or temporary license suspensions can be issued depending on the severity of the infraction or the frequency with which a business has been cited. Clerks who sell can also receive a citation. Liquor enforcement officers review the past two years when determining fines or license suspensions.