NYS DMV reports slight downward trend in citations issued for underage concertgoers attempting to buy alcoholic beverages

The New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) has examined data to suggest a continuing downward trend in citations for underage concertgoers attempting to buy alcoholic beverages with fake IDs during summer shows.

The annual enforcement drive, conducted with the State Liquor Authority and local law enforcement, seeks to prevent underage drinking and driving by checking for fake IDs at summer concert venues and other places young people gather across New York State.

The enforcement blitz concluded on September 29. This year, 307 people were cited and 349 fake IDs were seized.

A year ago, 312 concertgoers received citations, and 389 fake licenses were recovered. In 2022, more than 550 people were charged.

“We are happy to say that these numbers have been declining in recent years,” said DMV Commissioner Mark J.F. Schroeder, who also serves as Chair of the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee. “We hope the message is being heard that summer concerts should be enjoyed without putting health and safety at risk.”

In the Central New York region, 91 citations were issued this year, with 96 fake IDs confiscated.

North Country News image.