Beer-buying operations show disturbing trend

Local law enforcement officials should be commended for their second successful undercover beer-buying operation in the past 18 months.

The two operations have resulted in 30 arrests and shown just how easy it is to buy beer in Warren County ? even if you?re not 21.

For anyone keeping track of percentages, the statistics are eye-opening. During the first operation, the undercover operative was able to buy beer at 22 of the 28 stores he visited. That means someone who was not legal drinking age was able to buy beer in Warren County 78 percent of the time.

Last week the numbers weren?t quite as staggering but they are still cause for much concern. The operative was able to buy beer at eight of the 14 stores he visited. That?s better, but it?s still 57 percent of the time.

Those numbers are not acceptable. Local stores and local clerks who continue to sell beer to underage persons need to be caught. That?s why the Standard is hopeful these undercover operations can occur with more frequency.

We realize manpower is short and law enforcement is doing a top-notch job with the officers they do have available. McMinnville Police Department and the Warren County Sheriff?s Department face tight budgets year in and year out. Those departments don?t have the luxury of officers with much free time.

That said, the practice of selling beer to minors appears to be widespread in Warren County. Sheriff Jackie Matheny said last week?s operation was brought about because several parents had complained to him that their underage children were buying beer locally. That is troubling.

The success rate dropped from 78 percent to 57 percent from operation No. 1 to No. 2. Perhaps a few more of these beer-buying stings could get the number closer to where it should be ? no beer sales to people under 21.