A significant crackdown on underage drinking in Tempe, Arizona, resulted in 249 individuals being apprehended at a local bar last week.

Conducted last Thursday at Tempe Tavern, this marks the second major law enforcement operation at this venue within a year. According to Fox 10 Phoenix, the raid targeted underage patrons who used fraudulent identification and provided misleading information.

The recurring violations have sparked discussions about the bar’s accountability in managing alcohol service. With investigations still underway, potential penalties could include the suspension of the establishment’s liquor license.

“A collaborative effort between the Arizona Department of Liquor and Tempe Police Department led to a comprehensive compliance check, culminating in 249 arrests,” stated the Arizona Department of Liquor Licenses and Control (ADLLC) on Friday.

On November 20, 2025, Tempe Tavern was bustling with young attendees, leading to the arrest of 249 individuals for underage drinking during the enforcement operation. (Tempe Police Department / SWNS)

“This crackdown specifically targeted underage drinking and sent a strong message,” the department added. “Remember to always carry a valid ID and think twice before attempting to purchase alcohol if you are underage. Underage drinking is not a minor issue!!”

Of the 249 arrests, 246 people were cited and released, Fox 10 reported. The remaining individuals were reportedly booked into the Tempe City Jail. 

Tempe Tavern told Fox News Digital Tuesday that the establishment is “fully committed to cooperating with all authorities involved,” but declined to comment further “due to the ongoing investigation.”

Tempe police officers enter Tempe Tavern in Arizona on Nov. 20, 2025. (Tempe Police Department / SWNS)

The ADLLC investigations lieutenant told Fox 10 that the department will only place sanctions, such as a liquor license suspension or fines, after the Tempe Police Department finishes its investigation. 

The lieutenant added that the department will take everything into consideration when making a decision, including the fact that a similar police sweep happened at the tavern in April and led to another 167 arrests, the outlet said.

Following the incident, management posted to Facebook stating that neither the bar nor its employees received citations from the liquor board or Tempe police from that prior incident.

State and local law enforcement, including HSI agents, gather outside Tempe Tavern in Arizona during a large-scale operation on Nov. 20, 2025. (Tempe Police Department / SWNS)

Tempe Tavern acknowledged on social media that fake IDs have been a concern and stated that the bar scans every single ID presented at the door before entry, but noted that some fraudulent IDs can still successfully pass a scan and appear authentic. 

“Tempe Tavern complies with the law, which is why neither the bar nor its employees received citations from the liquor board or the Tempe Police Department,” the business said in May.

The Tempe Police Department and the Arizona Department of Liquor Licenses and Control did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Fox News Digital.