EPD wraps up alcohol enforcement grant with decoy stings and bar checks across Eureka

Press release from EPD:

The Eureka Police Department (EPD) has successfully completed the 2025/2026 Alcohol Policing Partnership (APP) grant, funded by the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC). EPD was awarded $40,000 through this grant to support local efforts focused on reducing alcohol-related harm, preventing underage access to alcohol, and promoting voluntary compliance with California’s alcohol laws.

Throughout the grant period, EPD conducted a series of proactive education, prevention, and enforcement operations designed to increase compliance among licensed establishments and reduce opportunities for unlawful alcohol sales. These efforts included Minor Decoy Operations, Shoulder Tap Operations (including participation in ABC’s Statewide Shoulder Tap Operation in March 2026), IMPACT Inspection Operations, and high-visibility enforcement at community events such as Bikes by the Bay, Cannifest, and Friday Night Market. The department also conducted plainclothes operations addressing retail theft and other alcohol-related violations.

These combined efforts resulted in increased compliance monitoring and enforcement action when necessary, including arrests and citations for violations such as furnishing alcohol to minors, public intoxication, theft related offenses, probation violations, and driving under the influence.

The ABC Alcohol Policing Partnership Grant is designed to support local law enforcement agencies in their efforts to reduce alcohol-related harm through a combination of education, prevention, and targeted enforcement. In addition to enforcement outcomes, these operations serve a broader purpose of reinforcing responsible alcohol sales practices, improving licensee compliance, and preventing youth access to alcohol.

“The Alcohol Policing Partnership Grant provides an important opportunity to work collaboratively with our community and local licensees to promote safe and responsible alcohol service,” said Chief Brian Stephens. “Through education, visibility, and enforcement when necessary, we are able to reduce underage access to alcohol and enhance overall community safety in Eureka.”

EPD remains committed to working in partnership with the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control, local businesses, and the community to support responsible alcohol service and reduce alcohol related harm throughout the city.