Three liquor store clerks will face criminal charges following a sting operation carried out by Wareham Police Department detectives on Thursday, July 26.

The sting comes as a result of the department's efforts to crack down on liquor sales to minors this summer. The clerks in question were caught by detectives after they allegedly sold alcohol to an undercover operative who was underaged.

At the direction of Acting Police Chief John Walcek, the clerks will face criminal charges as well as an appearance in court. The stores themselves will be dealt with administratively.

“Our department made it clear that there would be zero tolerance for violations of law with regard to the sale of liquor to minors,” Walcek said. “We are going to step up our compliance checks with these businesses, ensuring strict adherence to the law. If you are a minor and think you can buy alcohol in Wareham, those days are over."

Walcek added that those who provide alcohol to minors should be prepared to face the consequences in court. Detectives are seeking criminal complaints for the following individuals who were caught selling alcohol to minors:

• Rakesh Patel, 55, of Kingston – Anchor Liquors, 2369 Cranberry Highway
• Adelaide Deponte, 68, of Mansfield – Jug Shop, 221 Main St.
• Michael Domingos, 58, of Wareham – Sullivan’s Wine and Spirit, 260 Marion Road

Information received will be sent to the town for possible administrative sanctions.