Heads up. If you're under 21 years old and plan on using a fake or borrowed ID to get into a bar or buy alcohol in Lawrence, you may want to think again. Extra law enforcement will be on the lookout for individuals using fakeIDs plus bar owners and employees have been provided with information on how to better spot fake IDs. And if you are caught, it will cost you more than just a little embarrassment.
So what is a fake ID?
altering a license or ID
using someone else’s license or ID as your own
What happens if I use a fake ID?
walk of shame out of the bar of your choice by law enforcement
$$$ in fines and court costs (maximum fine is $2500)
possible jail time- mug shot, finger printing
Does Your Teen Have a Fake ID?
If your child is entering college it may be brought to their attention to get a Fake ID. Fake ID's are a very serious problem and if caught can cost a lot of money, time and cause embarrassment. In 2008 there were a 123 charges for Fake ID's here in Lawrence. In 2009 there were 118 charges. If you get charged for a Fake ID it is a misdemeanor and will show on your record.
What is Lawrence doing about Fake ID's?
- Lawrence has a program called Fake ID 101. It is a grant funded program dedicated to curbing the Fake ID usage here in Lawrence. There will be extra law enforcement on the lookout for individuals using Fake ID's.
What should you do if you find your teen's Fake ID?
- If you find your teen's Fake ID you should take it. You can cut it up or dispose of it however you want. This will make them unhappy because they probably spent a lot of money to get it.
- You want to discuss with them the Fake ID. Find out what their intentions were with the ID.
- Let them know the consequences of using a Fake ID (it is a misdemeanor, the fines are expensive, it is embarrassing, etc) and that it is illegal to drink before 21. Why risk it?
- Share the dangers of having a Fake ID and underage drinking. Older adults could take advantage of them. Drinking could lead to unwanted sex, pregnancy, STD's, fights, suicides, etc.
- Keep a close eye on your child going forward. Let them know that you expect them not to have a Fake ID. Keep the communication open. Share articles you have seen on underage drinking risks and consequences.
- Most of all, let them know you care about them and their safety. You are not trying to steal their fun. You know that waiting until they are 21 has real physical benefits; an adolescents's central nervous system and brain are not yet fully developed and are especially sensitive to alcohol and othe drugs and addiction happens much faster--in as little as 6-18 months (Journal of Substance Abuse). Plus, they will be better able to weigh the risks and consequences of consuming alcohol.
Do you know about Social Hosting?- It is a law against allowing individuals less than 21 years of age to consume alcoholic beverages on property owned, rented, or procured by you.
- You can be found guilty if you provide the place of minors to consume alcohol, even if you do not provide the alcohol.
- If found guilty, you are subject to a mandatory minimum fine of $1,000.
- Make sure you know who is always at your house and what they are doing.