On or about May 15th the deputies from Washington County Sheriff’s Office received a citizen tip about a possible underage drinking party in a remote gravel pit off the Stud Mill Road in Big Lake Township. An enforcement detail was organized and several Deputies from the Office of the Sheriff responded to the location.
Upon arriving at the gravel pit a very large group of individuals were observed congregating around a large bonfire. Approximately ½ of the group fled into the nearby woods on foot, several appearing to be under the age of 21. Deputies also noticed evidence of active drinking. The pit was secured and individuals were identified. The party was estimated to consist of approximately 100 people up the Sheriff’s Office arrival. Once juveniles (under 18 years of age), minors (between 18 and 20 years of age), and adults (21 years of age or greater) were identified Deputies began to process alcohol violations.
In all between juveniles and minors over 35 summons were issued for alcohol violations, drug possession, and littering. During the processing stage of the investigation rocks were thrown at the Deputies. No officers were hurt or struck but one cruiser was struck. It did not sustain any substantial damage however. Also during the processing fires were set in and around the woods of the pit. Due to current conditions these fires did not pose an immediate threat to persons or property; however the Maine Forest Service was called to respond and investigate the fires, trespass, and littering issues.
With help from Maine Forest Service Forest Rangers, the Sheriff’s Office was able to shut down the party safely. The pit where this underage drinking party occurred is not an authorized fire permit site, nor is it an authorized camping site. ALL of the persons present at this party were considered to be trespassing. In the process of shutting down the party 5 vehicles were towed from the pit at the owner’s expense. Forest Ranger’s Jeff Currier and Courtney Hammond extinguished the fires and cleaned as a result of the party.
It is believed that a possible reason for the party is in celebration of the Prom at Baileyville High School. The Washington County Sheriff’s Office does take a firm stance against underage drinking because of the severe health and safety problem that it causes. Anyone with information on an underage drinking party is encouraged to call and report it. You can call 1-800-432-7303, and you can remain anonymous.
Any questions about this can be directed to Lt. Travis J. Willey of the Washington County SO, at 598-5545.
Thank you,
Sheriff Donnie Smith
