New York State is taking steps to ensure that people who attend outdoor concerts this summer do so in a legal and responsible manner.
The Department of Motor Vehicle Investigators is leading law enforcement initiatives, dubbed “Operation Prevent,” to end the use of fake IDs to purchase alcohol at summer concerts .
Sweeps are underway at Saratoga Performing Arts Center, Darien Lake Performing Arts Center, Northwell Health at Jones Beach Theater, CMAC in Canandaigua, Lakeview Amphitheater in Syracuse and other locations where underage viewers are likely to gather.
In addition to DMV investigators, New York State Police officers, New York State Liquor Authority investigators, state park police, and local law enforcement will verify identities. people at concerts during the popular warm weather entertainment season.
Mark JF Schroeder, Commissioner of the Department of Motor Vehicles and Chairman of the Governor’s Highway Safety Committee, said that modern computer technology and creativity can lead to very good counterfeit New York State driver’s licenses and other identifications in and out of state, “Our investigators are experts in detecting fake IDs. This may sound realistic to you, but they know how to spot the telltale signs of a fraudulent document.
State Liquor Authority Chairman Vincent Bradley points out that underage drinking leads to reckless behavior that can lead to dangerous and lifelong consequences. Often the problems arise with drunk and impaired driving.
Customers under the age of 21 who use a fake ID or someone else’s ID to purchase alcohol may receive a ticket and their license may be revoked for a minimum of 90 days or up to one year.