FOND DU LAC COUNTY, Wis. (WFRV) – Thirteen businesses in Fond du Lac County failed recent alcohol compliance checks conducted by the Fond du Lac County Sheriff’s Office.
The countywide campaign wrapped up Saturday, March 14, 2026, following approximately three months of compliance checks at taverns and other licensed alcohol vendors. The effort came after a series of educational sessions, public notices and retailer training sessions warning establishments that checks would be conducted.
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The Sheriff’s Office partnered with Fond du Lac County United Way Drug Free Communities to provide education and assist with the compliance effort. Officials said both organizations share a focus on preventing alcohol from reaching underage individuals.
Before the checks began, all alcohol vendors were notified by letter. Representatives from United Way Drug Free Communities also presented at the January meeting of the Fond du Lac County Tavern League, discussing ID scanners and reminding businesses that scanners are available free of charge through the local United Way.
Additional education was provided in November 2025 during an alcohol and tobacco retailer training hosted at the Fond du Lac County Highway Department in partnership with Fond du Lac County Public Health. Sheriff’s officials also participated in a radio interview to inform the public that compliance checks would be taking place.
During the operation, adults under the age of 21 attempted to purchase alcohol while accompanied by a witness over the age of 21. Strict criteria were followed. Participants used valid, state-issued identification clearly marked with bold “Under 21 Until” language and vertically oriented formatting to indicate they were underage. They were instructed to answer all questions truthfully and not use fake identification.
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Out of 42 businesses checked, 13 failed. Ten businesses failed to check identification, while three checked IDs but still sold alcohol to the underage individual.
Officials say compliance checks remain a critical tool in keeping alcohol out of the hands of juveniles and reducing the risk of alcohol-related injuries and fatal crashes. The Sheriff’s Office said it remains committed to preventing underage drinking and protecting the safety of the community.
