More Teenagers Targeting Liquor to Shoplifting

OLYMPIA, Wash. (AP) — Thurston County authorities say more teenagers are shoplifting liquor that's now available at grocery stores.

The Olympian reports that at least 20 teenagers have been charged with stealing spirits from Thurston County grocery stores, but that tally doesn't include charges of minors in possession, which can be leveled when a teen has alcohol on them, but hasn't left the store. The tally also doesn't include people who are between 18 and 20 years old.

The voter-approved Initiative 1183 privatized liquor, making spirits available to buy at grocery stores around the state.

Authorities say they've also seen more reports of alcohol use at schools

Juvenile prosecutor Wayne Graham says local chains and big-box retailers are not taking any steps to minimize the access juveniles have to alcohol, especially through theft.