Project Sticker Shock Campaign Highlights Consequences of Providing Alcohol to Youth

News release
Page updated on October 16, 2023 at 11:12 AM
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For Immediate Release: October 16, 2023
Media Contact: Emma Beall, SAPCA Coordinator, emma.beall@alexandriava.gov, 571.302.1022

Alexandria, Va. – This Saturday, October 21, the City of Alexandria will “shock” local shoppers with the Project Sticker Shock Campaign. This youth-led event will kick off with a press conference at the Del Pepper Community Resource Center (4850 Mark Center Drive) at 10 a.m. featuring youth and community leaders speaking about preventing underage alcohol access.

Following the press conference, teams of youth and adults will place warning stickers, provided by the Virginia Alcoholic Beverage Control Authority, on multi-packs of alcohol to highlight the legal consequences of providing alcohol to persons under 21. Participating retail stores will receive a certificate in recognition of their partnership.

This campaign aims to reach community members ages 21 and older who may purchase alcohol for a person under age 21 – also referred to as a second-party sale. If a retail employee observes activity of a second party, such as passing of money, participation in selection, or bringing the alcohol to the counter, ID should be requested of the second party.

In Virginia, it is a Class 1 misdemeanor to provide alcohol to a minor. Adults can face the following penalties upon conviction:

  • A $2,500 fine per young person provided an alcoholic beverage
  • Up to 12 months in jail
  • Loss of the driver’s license for up to 12 months

To report concerns about the sale or provision of alcohol to minors, call the Alexandria Police Department’s non-emergency number at 703.746.4444 or file a report to the Virginia Alcoholic Beverage Control Authority.

This event is hosted by the Substance Abuse Prevention Coalition of Alexandria (SAPCA), the Alexandria Police Department; the Alexandria Sheriff’s Office; the Department of Community and Human Services; the Department of Recreation, Parks & Cultural Activities; and the Alexandria City High School U.S. Army Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps (JROTC).

Visit alexandriava.gov/SAPCA to learn more about SAPCA, including ways to get involved.

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For reasonable disability accommodation, contact maurice.tomdio@alexandriava.gov or call 571.384.5244, Virginia Relay 711.


About the City of Alexandria

Founded in 1749, the City of Alexandria is a full-service, independent, city in Virginia with a AAA/aaa credit rating and a national reputation for progressive and responsible government. With a fast-paced business environment and walkable neighborhoods, Alexandria is a world-class destination where businesses and nonprofits choose to call home. Alexandria’s ample office space and urban amenities offer room to grow – a value unmatched in the region. Located minutes from the nation’s capital, Alexandria’s old-world charm and cutting-edge innovation are the perfect mix for attracting a diverse community, talented workforce, and enthusiastic visitors.