Underage Drinking Arrests

Agents with the Florida Division of Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco were kept busy at the University of Central Florida football game Saturday. While fans were having fun tailgating before UCF took on South Dakota State University agents were busy.

ABT tells FOX 35 they arrested 20 tailgaters for the underage possession of alcoholic beverages during pre-game festivities. The division says underage drinking prevention is one of its top priorities.

It's not just those caught drinking underage that face prosecution. A new law stiffens criminal penalties for anyone caught two or more times giving alcohol to underage drinkers. Establishments that sell alcohol to those under 21 three times within a 12-week period face up to a $1,000 fine and a seven-day license suspension. Individuals who sell or give alcohol to underage youth face a maximum penalty of 60 days in jail and a $500 fine. Anyone who facilitates underage drinking will be subject to a first-degree misdemeanor on the second offense.