By Chief Steven J. Wojnar
Dudley Police Department There have been many questions asked recently regarding false identifications used to purchase alcoholic beverages. With the advances in computer technology, there are some very good fake ID’s being produced. Their use is a concern for public safety as well as the businesses who sell alcoholic beverages. I was asked to provide some information on false ID’s as well as the accepted forms of identification to purchase alcohol in Massachusetts. Through some very complex modern technology, and the use of the internet, falsified identifications are being obtained by many people. The use of these cards is illegal and has an impact on public safety. Businesses also face serious sanctions, including the suspension of their licenses, if they serve alcohol to minors. Several sections in the law cover falsified identifications. The most serious falls und MGL Chapter 90 Section 24B. This prohibits altering or falsifying several registry documents, including licenses and state issued identification cards. A violation of this law is a felony, carrying a maximum of a state prison term and a one-year license suspension. Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 138 Section 34B is the law which outlines identification for alcohol purchases. This applies to a anyone who alters, defaces, uses, transfers, etc. a false identification. Anyone found with one of these items can face a jail term for at least three months and a suspension of their driver’s license for at least six months. Section 34B lists acceptable forms of identification for employees and people having control of liquor establishments to rely upon. They are a Massachusetts Driver’s License, Massachusetts Registry issued Liquor Identification Card, a passport issued by the US or country recognized by the US, and/or a valid US Military Identification. Any other forms of identification (example out of state driver’s license) are to be taken by licensees, agents, or employees at their own risk. Should there be a violation for service to a minor, only the four types listed earlier will provide a valid defense for the people in charge of the establishment. |
The goal of the law is to insure underage people are not served alcoholic beverages. It can be challenging in our area, which has a college and borders other states. People from out of the area may be here purchasing these items. Business are trying to do the right thing and verify the age of customers. They can face legal trouble for violations. For the establishments, the best rule to live by is when in doubt, do not serve. It is better to be cautious and maybe lose a sale as opposed to losing a liquor license for a period. The false ID users also face some significant penalties. For those people who get “carded,” take it as a compliment and provide your license. The people asking are only doing their jobs to keep alcohol out of the hands of those who are under age.
Thanks again for your questions and comments. Please send them to me at the Dudley Police Department 71 West Main St., Dudley, Ma. 01571 or email at swojnar@dudleypolice.com. Opinions expressed in this weekly column are those of Chief Wojnar only and unless clearly noted, do not reflect the ideas or opinions of any other organization or citizen. |
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