A Santee bar sold alcohol to a minor decoy during a recent compliance operation by the San Diego County Sheriff's Office and California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control, sheriff's officials said.

The operation took place Aug. 13 at locations in Santee, Lakeside and Encinitas, according to a Sheriff's Office news release posted Aug. 21. Deputies, ABC agents and two minor decoys conducted both Minor Decoy and Shoulder Tap operations aimed at reducing alcohol access for people under 21.

During the Minor Decoy operation, a minor attempted to buy alcohol at six retail locations while supervised by peace officers. Sheriff's officials said one location, described as a bar in Santee, sold alcohol to the decoy.

In the Shoulder Tap operation, a minor stood outside six local retail liquor stores and asked adults to buy alcohol, making clear in some way that they were underage. Sheriff's officials said 36 adults were contacted and one adult purchased alcohol for the minor. Furnishing alcohol to a minor carries a minimum $1,000 fine and 24 hours of community service.

For Santee and Lakeside residents, the operation is a reminder that alcohol compliance checks are continuing across East County communities. The Sheriff's Office said it partners with ABC through an Alcohol Policing Partnership grant to prevent underage drinking and reduce alcohol-related crimes at licensed businesses.