Local stores caught in alcohol sting

By Jane Beathard

Staff Writer

Four London business were cited for selling alcohol to underage persons, following an undercover sting by city police on Friday, Dec. 16.

Employees of those businesses were issued summonses to appear in Madison County Municipal Court in coming weeks to face similar charges.

Businesses cited were Rich Oil, 278 Lafayette St.; London Food Mart, 50 E. High St.; BP of London, 51 E. High St. and the London One Stop, 157 S. Main St.

According to police chief Dave Wiseman, two separate operatives younger than 21 were sent into selected establishments to purchase alcoholic beverages, while police officers waited outside.

Businesses that were targeted, but refused to sell alcohol to the youthful undercover agents were The Crown Drive-Thru, 289 Lafayette St.; Speedway, 102 W. High St.; Casey’s Carryout, 123 S. Main St. and the Gin Mill Drive-Thru, 31 W. First St.

Wiseman said Friday’s sting was the result of citizen complaints regarding illegal alcohol sales. Local authorities will continue to monitor similar complaints and take enforcement action if necessary, he added.