Tempe Tavern Underage Drinking Sting Leads to 249 Arrests

UPDATE: A significant law enforcement operation has unfolded at Tempe Tavern, resulting in 249 arrests linked to underage drinking on November 20, 2023. The Tempe Police Department confirmed that the majority of those arrested were cited for underage drinking and possession of fake IDs, with only three individuals booked into the Tempe City Jail.

This latest crackdown marks a troubling trend for Tempe Tavern, which faced scrutiny earlier this year during a similar operation that resulted in 167 arrests. Complaints about underage consumption at the bar have prompted increased attention from authorities and community members alike.

The operation involved approximately 57 officers and was initiated in response to numerous reports regarding the bar’s failure to prevent underage drinking. “These are shocking numbers. We don’t celebrate them. Underage drinking puts people at risk – and that’s why we take it seriously,” stated a representative from the Tempe Police, emphasizing the critical nature of the situation.

As the Arizona Department of Liquor Licenses and Control (ADLLC) considers potential sanctions against the establishment, a representative noted that no decision will be made until the police conclude their investigation. Possible outcomes could include a liquor license suspension among other fines, leaving the bar’s future in a precarious state.

The arrested patrons reportedly provided false information to officers, indicating a systemic issue around proper identification checks at the bar. In light of the recent events, an on-site bartender declined to comment when approached on November 22, stating the manager was unavailable.

The implications of this sting extend beyond just legal repercussions; it highlights a significant community concern regarding the safety and well-being of local youth. As investigations continue, residents and officials alike are left waiting for the outcome, which could reshape the bar’s operations and impact local nightlife.

Stay tuned for further updates as this developing story unfolds, with critical decisions looming from the ADLLC and ongoing investigations by the Tempe Police. The community is watching closely as Tempe Tavern faces the consequences of its actions.