OVERLAND PARK, Kan. — It’s the beginning of a busy season for high school students. Spring break, prom and graduation are all on the way.
It’s also a busy time for police because some teens mix alcohol with those events. Overland Park Police budget about $20,000 to use for over time and special enforcement. They stake out liquor stores to watch for teens who may be drinking and driving.
“We recognize all of the problems underage drinking causes,” said Sgt. Eric Houston with OPPD.
Teens tend to get hurt in fights, falls or accidents when alcohol is involved. That’s why Overland Park Police are taking a proactive step to enforce underage drinking laws. The also listen for TIPS called in about underage drinking or loud parties.
Despite all the warnings police know some will still try to break the law.
“So, this is the warning that we’re out there and if you are drinking underage or providing alcohol to someone who’s underage or hosting a place where underage drinking is taking place, your chances of getting caught increase dramatically,” Houston said.
It’s safe to say Overland Park Police will have a good handle on the situation starting this weekend and going forward for the next three months.
“That schedule is by design because we want to make sure we’re covering those spring break times, the proms and not just where prom is at but also any of the businesses and any of the homes that could be prom or graduation parties,” he said.
Police aren’t just looking for high school kids drinking alcohol. They’re aware of Junior High students having parties as well. Anyone under 21-years-old will be on the radar of the additional officers working on the Teen Angel Grant.
