Police Warn of Repercussions of Underage Drinking as Prom Season Begins

Howard County Police are warning teens not to drink as prom and graduation season begins in the county.

In a press release issued this week, police asked parents not to buy alcohol or rent hotel rooms for their children to prevent underage drinking.

Police warned of the consequences for both adults and teens if arrested for underage drinking:

• Anyone under the age of 21 possessing alcohol can face multiple criminal charges including alcohol possession, misrepresentation of age to obtain alcohol and possession of a fake ID - all charges which carry a $500 fine.
• Driving under the influence also carries a $500 fine and, if convicted, a loss of license for 120 days or more.
• Adults can be charged with obtaining or furnishing alcohol for anyone under the age of 21, which carries a fine of $2,500.

“Too often, we have seen this time of celebration turn into a time of tragedy,” said Chief William McMahon in a release. “Criminal charges related to underage drinking can change a person’s life. Even worse, serious injury or death can turn what should be a new beginning into a tragic end.”

Police said they are working with local hotels to ensure they are enforcing rules that prevent anyone under the age of 21 from renting a room. Hotel employees are being asked by police to call police if parents or adults try to rent rooms for minors.

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