Note: the undercover operatives used in these operations are carefully chosen so they appear clearly to be underage. It is in no way the intention of the operation to trick anyone into selling alcohol illegally.
On February 28, 2014, The Sheriff’s Special Investigations Division conducted an operation checking businesses that sell alcohol in the Upper Keys. Twelve businesses were checked including restaurants, convenience stores and bars. Four of the businesses served alcohol to a minor during our investigation. The four clerks who sold the alcohol were issued Notices to Appear before a Monroe County Judge.
The following are a list of the Business, and attendants who sold the alcohol:
- Mobil Gas Station- 81644 Overseas Highway, Islamorada. Attendant: Andreanne Virgile, 21 years of age. Notice to appear issued.
- Tiny’s - 82788 Overseas Highway, Islamorada. Attendant: Chad Boals, 29 years of age. Notice to appear issued.
- Chevron Gas Station - 84001 Overseas Highway, Islamorada. Attendant: Patricia Henke, 62 years of age. Notice to appear issued.
- Circle K – 92780 Overseas Highway, Key Largo. Attendant: Chris Avramides, 43 years of age. Notice to appear issued.
The Sale Clerk violations are up to 60 days in jail, a $500.00 fine, $235.00 in court cost, $75.00 in cost of prosecution, and $40.00 in cost of investigation.
The Licensee Violations are:
1st-Offense $1000 fine and 7 day suspension.
2nd-Offense $3000 fine and 30 day suspension.
3rd-Offense Revocation of license.
The remaining business checked, were in compliance with the law. This operation was conducted in cooperation with the Monroe County Coalition for a Safe and Drug Free Community.
