Local News

Emphasis Patrols for Prom Weekend

May 09, 2014

With funding provided by Okanogan County Community Coalition's underage drinking prevention program, Omak Police will be conducting emphasis patrols as well as compliance checks this weekend.

Omak Police Dept. received compliance check training from Washington State Liquor Control Board last year, which means if alcohol is sold to a minor the clerk will be ticketed by Omak Police, but Washington State Liquor Control Board will also be notified and the liquor license holder will also be held responsible.

According to, Stacey Okland, the Underage Drinking Program Coordinator for Okanogan County Community Coalition, Omak Police and Okanogan County Community Coalition want young people to enjoy Prom this weekend, but we want them to make healthy positive choices not choices that can lead to assaults, drinking and driving, or alcohol poisoning.

A juvenile caught in possession or under the influence of alcohol faces fines, time in juvenile detention, and loss of their drivers’ license. Those found to be providing alcohol to someone “under 21” face $5000 in fines and up to a year in jail.

If you suspect someone is providing alcohol to minors or that someone is hosting an underage drinking party please call 911.

Since underage drinking can change the course of a young person’s life quickly, emphasis patrols and compliance checks by Omak PD will continue.