PHOENIX, Arizona – Tempe Police conducted a sweeping enforcement operation at Tempe Tavern on Thursday night, resulting in 249 arrests tied to underage drinking, fake IDs, and false information, according to officials. The high-volume crackdown marks one of the largest single-night operations in the area and follows months of repeated concerns and prior violations at the same establishment.
Incident Overview
Authorities confirmed that the large-scale operation at the popular Tempe Tavern unfolded after escalating complaints about illegal alcohol service to minors. According to the Tempe Police Department, dozens of individuals were found possessing fake identification, consuming alcohol while underage, or providing false details to officers during the enforcement sweep.
Police emphasized the gravity of the situation, noting the significant risks posed by underage drinking and the growing sophistication of counterfeit IDs. Officials responded with a coordinated presence aimed at addressing the recurring violations at the establishment, which is located close to Arizona State University.
Timeline of Events
On Thursday night, approximately 57 officers arrived at Tempe Tavern following multiple citizen reports indicating minors were being served alcohol on the premises. Authorities cited 249 individuals, of which 246 were issued citations and released, while three were booked into the Tempe City Jail.
This operation comes just months after 174 people were arrested in April at the same location for nearly identical violations. That earlier incident prompted a detailed investigation by the Arizona Department of Liquor Licenses and Control, which identified numerous operational failures within the establishment.
Violations and Findings by Officials
During the April investigation, state authorities determined that Tempe Tavern accepted highly questionable forms of identification, including a paper Arizona driver’s license and even a New Zealand driver’s license. Investigators noted patterns of non-compliance, raising serious concerns about the bar’s ability—or willingness—to restrict underage access…