The Lexington Police Department, in cooperation with the Massachusetts Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission (ABCC), will be conducting alcohol compliance checks at local establishments that are licensed to sell alcohol. The purpose of the compliance checks is to prevent people under the age of 21 from obtaining alcohol and to ensure that local businesses and restaurants that hold liquor licenses and their employees are not providing alcohol to minors. Lawful alcohol compliance checks are vital to ensure that establishments obey the laws pertaining to the sale of alcohol. Effective and regular compliance checks help reduce the sale of alcohol to minors and curb underage drinking, as well as alcohol-related traffic crashes, crime, health issues, and poor performance in school. Lexington Police will conduct compliance checks over the coming weeks. They will continue to do so periodically throughout the year to ensure the safety of youth in the community and that licensed establishments are complying with the law. The Massachusetts Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission requires that local authorities notify the public that they intend to conduct compliance checks before doing so.