As the warmth of summer continues across Ohio and classrooms sit empty, state officials are issuing a strong reminder to parents, liquor permit holders, and teens alike: underage drinking is not only illegal — it’s dangerous, and those responsible will be held accountable.
A Risky Season for Teens
With more free time and fewer eyes watching, summer has long been a season of experimentation for teens. According to research cited by the Ohio Department of Public Safety, approximately 11,000 teenagers take their first drink on an average summer day — a stark increase from 8,000 per day during the school year. The concern goes beyond curiosity: alcohol can lead to poor decisions, impaired driving, and even fatal consequences.
“Selling or furnishing alcohol to underage individuals, whether by a licensed business or in a private residence, isn’t just a crime — it’s a reckless act that endangers lives,” said Jamie Patton, Executive Director of the Ohio Investigative Unit (OIU). “Adults and minors alike must understand the severe consequences.”
The ‘100 Deadliest Days’ on Ohio Roads
Between Memorial Day and Labor Day — what safety officials call the “100 Deadliest Days” — Ohio sees a sharp increase in teen traffic fatalities. In 2024, 568 crashes involving teens were linked to alcohol, and 152 of those occurred during this perilous summer stretch. Seven of those crashes were fatal.
OIU agents actively work to reduce these numbers by conducting compliance checks, cracking down on underage sales, and investigating businesses or individuals who serve alcohol illegally.
The Legal — and Civil — Costs
Ohio law is clear: no one under 21 may buy, possess, or drink alcohol. Violations can lead to fines, juvenile detention, and suspension of a driver’s license. Adults who provide alcohol to minors may face up to $1,000 in fines, six months in jail, or both.
Even more sobering is the potential for civil liability. If a teen who was drinking at a party causes harm — or dies — the adult host could be sued for wrongful death. And it doesn’t matter if the alcohol was provided with another parent’s permission — the law still forbids it.
A Note to Parents: You Can’t Turn a Blind Eye
The idea of hosting a party “safely” at home — where teens are allowed to drink under watchful eyes — is not just flawed, it’s unlawful. Ohio law prohibits parents from providing alcohol to any underage individual who isn’t their own child. And even then, liability is a looming threat.
In 2024, the OIU recorded over 850 arrests for underage drinking. Of the cases with open details, nearly half took place during the summer.
Licensing and Oversight
While the Division of Liquor Control — part of the Ohio Department of Commerce — doesn’t handle criminal investigations, it plays a vital role in licensing and inspecting nearly 28,000 alcohol-selling businesses across the state. Superintendent Jackie DeGenova said most Ohioans are acting responsibly but urges the public to report violations when they see them.
See Something? Say Something
If you suspect a bar, store, or private party is serving alcohol to minors, officials urge you to act. Reports can be filed directly with the Ohio Investigative Unit at oiu.ohio.gov.
Summer should be a time of freedom and fun — but not at the cost of safety. With watchful eyes and community cooperation, Ohio hopes to keep this season safe for everyone.
