Breaking the Ties Between Youth and Substance Abuse

Police officers know from experience that a significant number of police calls for service are related to alcohol abuse. Unfortunately, our youth have not escaped the influence of this social problem. State Atty. Gen. Bill Lockyer recently released a survey that showed a decline in alcohol abuse among students. That's the good news--current prevention strategies seem to be reaching teens who are casual alcohol users. However, the fact remains that the number of students who report using drugs and alcohol on a daily or weekly basis remains unacceptably high. One indication of this problem is that recent statistics show 21% of drivers under 21 who are involved in fatal collisions had been drinking alcohol.

At the Ventura Police Department. we are addressing the problems of substance abuse among youth from several fronts. Our Safe Schools Program puts police officers on campus to educate students about the dangers of alcohol, drug and tobacco abuse. Working with school officials and our other police resources, school resource officers are also charged with enforcing a zero tolerance policy against substance abuse on campus. Through the Youth Activities Program and the Police Activities League, officers work with youth to give them positive alternatives to substance abuse.

Specifically with regard to alcohol abuse, the Police Department is working collaboratively with the State Department of Alcohol Beverage Control (ABC) on several educational and enforcement programs designed to reduce drug and alcohol use among minors. This effort is funded through a $99,000 grant from ABC. Under this grant, the Police Department will coordinate educational programs for merchants who sell and distribute alcoholic beverages, and ensure targeted enforcement directed at minors who purchase and merchants who sell alcohol in violation of state law.

The educational phase of the program aims to cut sales of alcoholic beverages to minors by educating merchants and their employees. The Police Department recently hosted the first of these educational programs to provide accurate information to retail businesses and their employees on alcohol responsibility and California law. This free, voluntary program provides practical information on serving alcoholic beverages safely, responsibly and legally. More than 60 local businesses were represented in this training.