12 Aug Undercover sting operation conducted at First Thursday’s Art Walk

Last Thursday, the State Liquor Control Board conducted an undercover sting operation at seven local galleries in Pioneer Square. Staying very busy with nightclubs and sporting events, galleries aren’t usually something that they patrol, said Liquor Control Board staff member, Frank Gallegos.

The LCB received a complaint last month, however, from a mother whose daughter had apparently received alcohol at a First Thursday art gallery, and was pulled over that night and arrested for drunk driving.

For the sting operation, a teenager was sent with undercover officers into seven galleries to see if he/she was able to get some alcohol. Seven out of the seven galleries that were involved in the sting operation failed and “responsible individuals” will receive misdemeanor tickets for serving alcohol to a minor. The fines will be set by a judge once they attend a hearing.

The liquor control board, now aware of a potential “public safety issue,” will be handing out flyers at next month’s First Thursday that offer training and basic liquor guidelines for local galleries and studies.

Int he meantime, here is some basic information:

1. Art galleries are not currently required to have a liquor permit
2. Although you are not legally required to check ID’s, you are required to check that no one under 21 is receiving alcohol (aka check the ID’s of “youthful” looking individuals)
3. Your gallery is liable for what happens after an under 21 individual drinks liquor at your establishment. For example, if someone under 21 drinks at your gallery, and then gets into an accident, the liability will go back to you/your gallery.

For more information, you can either go to the Liquor Control Board’s website or contact Frank Gallegos at 206-389-2156.

[Update: Someone just sent me the link to the SLOG, who reported this this morning + has additional info]