Clarification: This story is in connection to raids that occurred on Sept. 26. The raids were a joint operation between several law enforcement agencies. Our original story, which can be found here, is in reference to the results of the New York State Police operation, this story is regarding the State Liquor Authorities findings, which were released Nov. 18 and wrongly stated the results as being from operation in the month of October. The State Liquor Authority has since corrected their statement. While Hideaway was the only bar to be found in violation by the SLA, the other bars were found to be in violation of other statutes by the New York State Police.

ITHACA, N.Y. — One local establishment has been caught selling alcohol to minors, according to the New York State Liquor Authority (SLA).

The SLA conducted 55 operations in 38 counties in late September and early October, with investigators sending underage decoys into 812 locations licensed for alcohol sales across the state.

Five of those businesses were in Tompkins County. Specifically, Ithaca.

Hideaway, a Collegetown bar at 409 Eddy Street, was found to have sold to a minor.

Moonies and Silky Jones, both establishments on The Commons that have previously been cited for selling to minors by the State Police as part of these raids, did not sell to the SLA’s decoys during the operation.

Level B, a neighbor of Hideaway — across the street at 410 Eddy Street, and Loco Cantina/Luna Inspired Street Food, were all part of the SLA’s operation but did not sell to decoys.

“The SLA will carry on with these efforts, throughout the year, to hold licensed establishments accountable,” said Vincent G. Bradley, Chairman of the New York State Liquor Authority. “It is our obligation to uphold the law and to ensure our licensees are aware of their responsibilities. Our continued partnership with the DMV and local law enforcement helps us strengthen our efforts to stop underage drinking and the use of fake identification.”

The decoys were able to purchase alcohol at 156 businesses listed in New York while 656 businesses refused to sell to underage decoy. The SLA has checked over 2,000 locations so far in 2019, according to the press release.

According to the SLA, businesses charged with underage sales face civil penalties of up to $10,000 per violation, with fines starting from $2,500 to $3,000 for a first-time offense. Repeat offenders face potential suspension or revocation of their liquor licenses. Employees or licensees who sell to minors can be arrested and charged with a misdemeanor.

Persons under the age of 21 found to be using fake IDs or false documents with the intent of purchasing alcohol can be arrested and have their license revoked for a minimum of 90 days or up to one year.