Police to Conduct Bar Inspections, DUI Patrols, Host Training

Redlands Police will continue proactive work to prevent problems related to alcohol abuse this week, conducting inspections in bars, DUI patrols and hosting Responsible Beverage Service Training. “We know that preventing tragedies is absolutely the best use of our time and precious budget funds,” said Commander Chris Catren. “These current enforcement actions and training are part of our ongoing commitment to keep Redlands a safe and desirable place to live and do business.” As part of the ongoing enforcement work, officers are visiting alcohol establishments this week and next to ensure servers are complying with laws including not selling alcohol to anyone who is under age or serving intoxicated patrons. In these “Impact Inspections,” officers will also work hand-in-hand with business staff to make sure they have the tools to catch potential fake ID use by minors. Officers are conducting DUI saturation patrols during peak times to catch those attempting to drive while “buzzed” or drunk. The Redlands Police Department is also hosting a Licensee Education on Alcohol and Drugs (LEAD) Training from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 1. The training is free and strongly recommended for owners, managers and employees that sell or serve alcohol. Attending a LEAD or Responsible Beverage Service Training is required under the City’s Deemed Approved Ordinance for all employees involved in alcohol sales such as bartenders and sales clerks. Thursday’s training will be conducted by the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) at the Redlands Police Department Annex, 30 Cajon St. Those seeking more information about attending may contact Sgt. Andy Capps at acapps@redlandspolice.org. “The more alcohol-related problems we prevent, the more time our officers have to attend to other vital needs in the community,” said Mayor Paul Foster. In addition to degrading public health, safety and quality of life, alcohol abuse takes a huge toll financially. According to a recent study, alcohol abuse cost state and local public services budgets over three million dollars in Redlands in 2010. The Responsible Redlands initiative aims to curb the problems related to binge and underage drinking in Redlands in order to achieve a safer, healthier community. The campaign includes DUI checkpoints and saturation patrols to identify intoxicated drivers, party patrols to enforce the City’s Social Host Ordinance, decoy and shoulder tap operations to cite businesses and individuals who provide alcohol to underage persons and educational efforts for local businesses that serve alcohol. Responsible Redlands welcomes partnerships with alcohol retailers and establishments that serve alcohol.