Employees at two Albert Lea businesses sold alcohol to underage decoys during compliance checks conducted by the Albert Lea Police Department from August to November.

According to a news release, Crescendo employee Lillian Sharon Armstrong, 59, and Fountain Warehouse Liquor employee Holly Ann Stenseth, 35, conducted the illegal sales.

A detective reportedly supervised decoys between 18 and 20 years old attempting to purchase alcohol products in 28 establishments.

Retail clerks who sell alcohol to people under the age of 21 are charged with a gross misdemeanor, and the establishment is subject to having its alcohol license suspended. Continued violations may result in license revocation.

Minnesota provisional driver’s licenses and instructional permits illustrate the date the holder became 18. An additional, “Under 21” notation above the photo is provided.

The Albert Lea Police Department encourages employees and owners of establishments holding an alcohol license to attend server training regarding underage sales in conjunction with the Minnesota Department of Public Safety Alcohol and Gambling Enforcement Division, which is hosted by the ALPD.

According to the release, the Albert Lea City Council supports a best practices program, which encourages liquor license holders to voluntarily undertake practices that help avoid sales to underage buyers. A licensed establishment that participates in the program will be subject to modified presumptive penalties.

“The City Council believes that all people who sell or deliver alcoholic beverages should check the identification of anyone who appears to be 40 years old or younger,” the press release stated. “If a liquor licensee wishes to make this a requirement in its establishment, the city provides posted notices.”