Des Plaines Police Department Cracks Down on Teenage Drinking Parties

Strategic Insights -

As prom and graduation season approaches, the Des Plaines Police Department is increasing its efforts to prevent teenage drinking parties hosted by parents. The department is joining a campaign called "Parents Who Host Lose the Most," which aims to educate parents about the risks of underage drinking and the potential consequences of hosting such parties. According to the program's creator, the Drug-Free Action Alliance, any adult who serves alcohol to underage youth or is aware of it being served on their property can face liability and even felony charges.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Des Plaines Police Department is participating in the "Parents Who Host Lose the Most" campaign to prevent teenage drinking parties during prom and graduation season.
  • Any adult who serves alcohol to underage youth or is aware of it being served on their property can face liability and even felony charges.
  • Parents caught hosting a party face a Class A misdemeanor with a fine of at least $500, and could face a felony charge with a $25,000 fine and one to three years in prison if a serious injury or death occurs.
  • A 2000-2006 survey found a 42% decrease among youth respondents who reported knowing of parents who host parties where alcohol is available or served to teens.
  • A Dutch study found that teenagers who drink with their parents have an elevated risk of alcohol-related problems later.
  • The American Medical Association study shows that underage drinking can negatively affect the developing brain.

Statistics:

  • 42% decrease in youth respondents who reported knowing of parents who host parties where alcohol is available or served to teens between 2001 and 2006 (Parents Who Host Assistant Program Director Marcie Seidel).
  • 2001-2006: Number of youth respondents who reported knowing of parents who host parties where alcohol is available or served to teens (not specified).
  • Dutch study found that teenagers who drink with parents have an elevated risk of alcohol-related problems later.
  • American Medical Association study shows that underage drinking can negatively affect the developing brain.

Sources:

  • "Parents Who Host Lose the Most" campaign ( Drug-Free Action Alliance, 2000)
  • Des Plaines Police Department
  • Maine West High School
  • Elk Grove High School
  • Marcie Seidel, Parents Who Host Assistant Program Director (no date)
  • David J. Hanson, professor emeritus of sociology at State University of New York at Potsdam (no date)
  • American Medical Association (no date)
  • Dutch study (no date)