Four Albert Lea businesses failed alcohol sales compliance checks Thursday.

Albert Lea Police Department officers supervised decoys between 18 and 20 years old, who attempted to purchase alcohol at 31 establishments.

Employees at Hy-Vee Liquor, The Interchange, The Eagles Club and The Elbow Room conducted the illegal sales, according to a press release.

Retail clerks who sell alcohol to those under 21 are summoned to court and charged with a gross misdemeanor. In addition, the establishment is subject to having its alcohol license suspended. Continued violations may result in revocation of the license.

The release noted that both the state of Minnesota provisional driver’s license and the instructional permit illustrate the date the holder becomes 18. There is also an “Under 21” notation above the photo.

The Police Department encourages employees and owners of establishments holding an alcohol license to attend the Underage Access to Alcohol Server Training in conjunction with the Minnesota Department of Public Safety Alcohol and Gambling Enforcement Division. The most recent training was conducted in May.