Maine Twp. bar serves liquor to 12-year-old, police say

Police conducting a series of underage alcohol stings in the Northwest suburbs cited a Maine Township pool hall who served a group of teenagers including a 12-year-old boy over the weekend.

“He looked older than 12 but not definitely not 21,” said Liana Jackson, Cook County Sheriff’s office spokeswoman.

Investigators along with the 12-year-old, a 14-year-old, a 17-year-old and two 18-year-olds were served beers at Premier Billiards and Cafe, 2626 Golf Road in unincorporated Glenview, authorities said.

The sting operation, put on by the Cook County sheriff’s office, was intended to check up on liquor stores, bars and restaurants as spring break began at area schools, according to authorities.

High school and junior high students partnered with sheriff’s police officers during the stings at eight establishments in Maine and Wheeling Townships Saturday, but Premier Billiards and Cafe received the only citation, according to police.

Police checked a chain drugstore, smaller convenience stores, liquor stores and bars.

The sting also targeted 10 Leyden Township businesses, and four sold to the minors after checking IDs that showed the students were underage, according to police.

Those businesses were: Possum’s Pub, 2324 N. Mannheim Road; Convenient Place, 101 E. Grand Ave.; Ozzie’s Food Store, 1158 W. Grand Ave.; and Tequilaz Bar and Grill, 11220 W. Grand Ave.

The businesses will be issued citations carrying a fine of anywhere from $500 to $2,500 depending on whether they are a repeat offender.

Police said the undercover checks will continue throughout the suburbs.