With homecoming festivities around the corner, the Deerfield Police Department would like to remind parents of the legal ramifications of hosting parties where alcohol is present for underage children. State law and local ordinance prohibit the consumption of alcohol by a minor, and parents that host parties will be subject to prosecution to the full extent of the law.
Events in past years have shone a spotlight on the dangers of underage drinking, a hazard that can be effectively remedied by parental prevention that starts at home. It is important that parents keep an open and active line of communication with their children about the hazards of drinking and driving and be vigilant in knowing their child’s whereabouts. "Parents Who Host Lose the Most" is a local campaign to remind parents of the legal ramifications of hosting parties and the harm it can cause families.
What parents should know:
- As a parent, you cannot give alcohol to your teen’s friends under the age of 21 even in your own home or with their parent’s permission.
- You cannot knowingly allow a person under 21 to remain in your home or on your property while consuming or possessing alcohol.
If you break the law:
- You face a sentence of 365 days in jail, a $2,500 fine and two years probation.
- Civil action may be taken against you if you give alcohol to anyone under 21 and they, in turn, damage property, hurt themselves or hurt someone else.
Things you can do as a parent:
- Refuse to supply alcohol to anyone under 21.
- Be at home when your teen has a party.
- Make sure that alcohol is not brought into your home or property by your teen’s friends.
- Talk to other parents about not providing alcohol at other events your child will be attending.
- Report underage drinking to the Deerfield Police Department - you can report anonymously.
For more information on this initiative, contact the Deerfield Police Department at 847.945.8636.