Fox Lake law targets underage drinking

People who knowingly host underage drinking parties in Fox Lake now could be charged with a crime, police officials said Wednesday.

Fox Lake village officials passed a new social hosting law this week, said Fox Lake Police Chief Mike Behan.

The ordinance, similar to those on the books in neighboring towns, states that residents hosting parties at which they know underage drinking is taking place can be ticketed and fined $100.

In the past, police could only issue citations for contributing to the delinquency of a minor after proving the person charged had purchased the alcohol, he said. Now, the host simply has to be aware that minors are drinking.

“We don't have to prove you purchased the alcohol, just prove you knew about and were hosting the party,” Behan said.

“This law will allow us to hold parents and other people over the age of 21 responsible if underage drinking takes place during their event,” he said.

Fox Lake Trustee Val Griseta said the new ordinance is part of a village review of all local laws.

“We have been going through and updating some of the ordinances we have in town,” she said. “This was one the police department felt was necessary to update and make stronger and the board agreed.”

Behan added: “It's a way to make people more responsible for the parties they have. It's designed to help curb underage drinking in Fox Lake and make parents be more aware of what's happening with their children in town.”