Three Watertown Establishments Cited in Alcohol Compliance Sweep

Northeast Radio SD News - Watertown, SD - The Watertown Police Department (WPD) issued citations to three local businesses last week following a series of routine alcohol compliance checks aimed at curbing underage drinking and improving road safety.

On December 11, 2025, WPD officers visited 18 licensed establishments across the city to verify that retailers were adhering to South Dakota laws prohibiting the sale of alcohol to individuals under the age of 21.

According to a department news release issued Tuesday, 15 of the 18 businesses checked passed the inspection. However, three establishments failed when clerks sold alcohol products to a minor.

The WPD confirmed that citations were issued to the specific clerks involved for providing alcohol to a person under 21. While the names of the establishments were not immediately released, the department emphasized that these checks are a core component of their public safety mission.

A Broader Push for Safety

The enforcement effort is part of the department’s ongoing initiative: “Keep Watertown’s Streets Safe – Your Best Route Home is a Sober One.” Launched earlier this year in response to a 35% spike in DUI arrests in 2024, the program focuses on the link between responsible alcohol service and the prevention of impaired driving.

“Businesses and their employees play a critical role in preventing underage drinking and the associated public safety risks,” the department stated.

The Watertown Police Department reminds all residents and retailers that the legal age to purchase or possess alcohol in South Dakota is 21. Under the law, all suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.