03/06/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 03/06/2026 14:14
El Cajon Police Conduct Minor Decoy Operation 02/27/2026
TYPE OF INCIDENT: Minor Decoy Alcohol Operation
DATE AND TIME OF INCIDENT: 02/27/2026 @ 7:00AM - 11:00AM
LOCATION OF INCIDENT: El Cajon, CA
RESUME OF INCIDENT:
El Cajon, CA - On February 27, 2026, the El Cajon Police Department conducted a Minor Decoy operation at alcohol retailers throughout the city. The operation was aimed at ensuring local businesses comply with California laws prohibiting the sale of alcohol to individuals under the age of 21.
During the operation, supervised minor decoys attempted to purchase alcoholic beverages at 10 licensed establishments within the City of El Cajon. All 10 businesses checked identification and refused the sale, resulting in a 100% compliance rate.
The El Cajon Police Department recognizes and appreciates the efforts of local businesses and their employees for taking responsible steps to prevent underage alcohol sales. Operations such as these help promote community safety and reduce alcohol-related incidents involving minors.
Minor Decoy operations are conducted periodically throughout the year and are designed to educate businesses, ensure compliance with state law, and protect the public.
This project is part of the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control's Minor Decoy/Shoulder Tap Grant Project, funded by the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Prepared by:
Sgt. Patrick Gomes
El Cajon Police Department
Special Enforcement Unit
Reviewed by:
Lt. Joe Crawford
El Cajon Police Department
Metropolitan Division