On August 4, the Metropolitan Drug Commission (MDC) hosted a special fake ID training at Hilton Garden Inn for 20 servers, bartenders and bouncers on Cumberland Avenue.
Fake, borrowed or altered IDs are a persistent problem for businesses near campus. Fake IDs are often purchased online or borrowed from a friend or sibling with similar features. Bartenders say underage students often enter bars on The Strip with little trouble using someone else’s ID.
MDC worked with UT Center for Health Education and Wellness, the Knoxville Police Department (KPD) and the University of Tennessee Police Department (UTPD) to assist the Cumberland businesses, keep students safe and prevent underage drinking.
Kim Pouncey of TopShelf Responsible Beverage Service and Derrick Dalton of the Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) led the session. The pair covered the most popular types of fake IDs, common ID security features and what to do when a fake ID is presented. KPD and UTPD discussed their increased enforcement efforts and offered support to the businesses.
MDC provided free tools to help detect fake IDs, including UV black lights, lighted magnifiers, ID checking guides, window clings and tip sheets.
“Alcohol beverage service is a challenging industry, particularly when it comes to checking IDs. The design and security features on driver’s licenses change frequently, which can trip up even the most seasoned employee,” Deborah Huddleston of MDC, said. “We hope the information and the materials provided help them better identify the fakes as the new school year begins.”