A recent compliance check at Red Light Liquors in Caroline County revealed a serious violation of alcohol sales regulations, prompting swift action from the Board of License Commissioners. During the check, an undercover agent successfully purchased alcohol without being asked for identification, despite the establishment's claims of strict ID checks.

The incident occurred on November 27, 2024, when a 19-year-old confidential informant was able to buy a six-pack of alcoholic beverages without any verification of age. The total cost of the purchase was $8.99, plus tax, and the employee involved did not check the informant's ID, which is a clear violation of Maryland's alcohol laws.

At the meeting on February 26, 2025, the owner of Red Light Liquors, Mr. Ritter, took full responsibility for the lapse, attributing it to staffing issues and a personal loss affecting the cashier on duty. He emphasized that the staff is trained to check IDs rigorously and expressed a commitment to improving compliance measures, including more stringent ID checks and staff training.

The Board, however, was not lenient in its response. After deliberation, they found Red Light Liquors guilty of violating both state and county regulations regarding the sale of alcohol to minors. The board imposed a $2,500 fine and a three-day suspension of the liquor license, which must be served within a specified timeframe.

This incident marks a troubling trend for the establishment, as it follows a previous violation within a short period. The board members expressed concern over the repeated offenses and the need for strict adherence to regulations to prevent underage sales. The owner assured the board that measures would be taken to ensure such violations do not occur again, highlighting the importance of maintaining community trust and compliance with the law.

The board's decision underscores the seriousness of underage alcohol sales and the commitment to enforcing regulations to protect public health and safety in Caroline County.