If anyone is thinking about buying alcohol for a minor, Boothbay Harbor police officer Larry Brown wants them to think again.  

“Don't do it. I mean, it can go wrong in so many different ways,” he said, adding, there could be legal civil and criminal consequences, or worse. "If that person goes out and gets into an accident and seriously hurts or kills somebody, there's just so many ways this can go wrong. So please do not do that.”  

Brown joined several Boothbay Region High School (BRHS) students May 2 as part of “Sticker Shock.” The program, sponsored by Maine state agencies, warns adults about providing alcohol to minors and aims to reduce underage drinking by limiting youth access.

The students and a staff member from the school’s Student Health Advisory Board put warning stickers on alcohol containers at several local businesses including Pinkham's Gourmet Market, Walgreens, Irving and Hannaford. Brown said the purpose is to remind adults of the consequences of providing alcohol to those under 21, especially as prom and graduation near. 

“It's a good cause. Especially coming into party season,” said BRHS student Finn Harkins. “I feel like bright orange stickers really kind of puts it in the face of anyone trying to buy alcohol for a minor.” 

Harkins said he participated because it's an opportunity to reach out to the community. “It's a great time to spread awareness for this, and it's a great opportunity to shine a light on an issue,” he said.  

Brown said the program has been going on for many years, and he has been happy to be a part of it. He said it’s a good way to get kids out in the community and shows how the police, schools and students work together to keep people safe against potentially devastating consequences of buying alcohol for minors. 

“We take it very seriously at the police department,” Brown said. “And, knock on wood, I can't remember any incident that we've had, and I want to make sure that it stays that way too.”