Authorities in southwest Iowa say an alcohol sales compliance check Wednesday in Council Bluffs revealed clerks at three out of nine businesses checked sold alcohol to minors. The check was conducted during an undercover operation by members of the Southwest Iowa Narcotics Task Force. The Task Force utilized an 18-year old female and a 19-year old male who attempted to make purchases of alcohol.

Officials say because they sold alcohol to persons of underage, the following persons acting as sales clerks in Council Bluffs were cited: Mindy Jo Johnson, an employee of BadonkaRonks on S. 24th Street; Wendy Hellend, an employee of the Goldmine Lounge, and Hannah E. Wenchell, an employee of the Fiddlin’ Monkey. An employee of a business who sells booze to a minor faces a$500 civil penalty or 14-day license suspension for the first violation or first violation within two-years. The business owner faces a similar fine.

The six Council Bluffs businesses checked who were in compliance with the law and refused to sell alcohol to minors, include: Glory Days; O’Face Bar; Caddy Shack; Rodeo Bar; Salty Dog and 1892 German Bier Haus.

Authorities say the Task Force will continue to conduct these types of undercover operations in the future, to make sure local businesses are in compliance.