Staff Writer

 Purchasing and pouring became problems for business owners and a resident cited for alcohol violations last week.

Scarborough Police Chief Robert Moulton said a liquor enforcement detail comprised of Scarborough, Saco and Old Orchard Beach police officers visited 17 stores in Scarborough on March 16 and watched clerks in eight of the stores sell alcohol to underaged detail members.

According to Scarborough police department logs, Bad Dog Deli, Maine Smoke Shop, Village Center Auto Care, Oak Hill Mobil, all on Route 1; Oak Hill Discount Beverage on Adams Way, County Road 1st Stop, and the Meat House and Scarborough Wine Outlet on Payne Road were violators.

Moulton said the report on the detail was sent to the Maine Bureau of Liquor Licensing and Compliance, which will determine any civil penalties for violations.

Moulton said he sent notes to owners of the nine stores that turned away the underaged buyers to congratulate them on successful compliance.

“Either way, hopefully it puts it back in the forefront,” Moulton said.

Moulton said compliance details occur throughout the year when there is an opportunity and manpower available. Although no restaurants were checked this time, details will also be conducted and compliance for tobacco sales to minors will be checked on occasion.

Police responding to complaints about a party on Two Rod Road on March 19 summonsed Jennifer Fortier, 41, for allegedly allowing a minor under 18 to possess or consume liquor and arrested a 16-year-old girl for possessing alcohol, Sgt. Rick Rouse said.

Police logs show the call came at 10:39 p.m., and Rouse said officers broke up a birthday party attended by between 50 and 70 youths.

Rouse said the juvenile who was arrested and Fortier were seen in front of the house, while others gathered at a bonfire behind the house. Rouse said perhaps 20 to 30 of those at the party fled into the woods as police arrived, and soda cans found with beer cans indicated not everyone at the party was drinking.

Staff writer David Harry can be reached at 282-4337, ext. 219