Binghamton Plans Fines, Jail Time for Hosts of Underage Parties

People who host parties with underage drinking in Binghamton could be fined $1,000 or jailed for 15 days under a proposal being sent to city council.

Mayor Richard David Friday announced the legislation to crack down on large gatherings involving illegal activity at fraternity houses and other locations in Binghamton.

The measure calls for penalties for those who host parties where alcoholic beverages or drugs are "being possessed, served to or consumed by a minor."

The law would apply to homes, apartments or any kind of dwelling unit, as well as "adjacent amenity spaces, yards and open areas."

When city police now are alerted to a large gathering where underage drinking is suspected, officers are sent to break up the party. Police don't arrest the party hosts.

The proposal is expected to be discussed at a city council work session Monday.

Contact WNBF News reporter Bob Joseph: bob@wnbf.com

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