Three area businesses failed alcohol compliance checks conducted this week by the Freeborn County Sheriff’s Office.

According to a news release, the Sheriff’s Office conducted checks at 16 bars and liquor vendors within Freeborn County. The businesses were outside of Albert Lea.

The companies to fail the checks were the American Legion and Office Bar in Glenville and the Gopher Stop in Clarks Grove.

The release stated the unannounced checks were completed to ensure that the businesses are not selling or providing alcohol to people who are not old enough by law to purchase or be in possession of it.

During compliance checks, underage buyers are sent into an establishment in an attempt to purchase alcohol. Those buyers are required to carry photo identification — usually a driver’s license — and are instructed to show that ID if asked for it by the clerk or bartender.

The clerk or bartender makes the ultimate decision whether to deny or agree to the sale.

A failure occurs when alcohol is sold or served to those buyers.

Freeborn County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Bob Kindler said the department tries to conduct the compliance checks twice a year. The last time there was a check there weren’t any failures.

“This isn’t the worst we’ve ever done or that the businesses have ever done, but certainly not the best,” Kindler said. “We’ve got some work to do. It’s about average.”

Businesses that fail the checks are subject to civil penalties, including a fine and business closure. The penalties are determined by the entity that issues the liquor licenses.

In this case, the cities of Glenville and Clarks Grove will determine the penalties.