Social Host Ordinance Violated at Spring Valley Party, Three Arrested

The San Diego County Sheriff's Department made the following announcement on June 30, 2012:

Three people were arrested in connection with an underage drinking party in Spring Valley. Sheriff's deputies received a call reference a loud party in the 700 Block of Sacramento Avenue in Spring Valley around 11:25 p.m. on Friday, June 29 2012.

When deputies arrived, they found approximately 50 people inside the house and patio. A large amount of alcohol was found on the patio. Deputies shut the party down.

Krista Marie Dedrick, 18, was arrested for violating the Social Host Ordinance in the County of San Diego. Dedrick told deputies she was house sitting for her parents and she allowed some of her friends to host a party at her parent's residence.

A 17-year-old male was arrested for violation of curfew and a sixteen-year-old female was arrested for being drunk in public. Both juveniles were released to parents/relatives.

A social host does not have to be 21 years of age to be in violation of the law. The homeowner or property owner can be held liable for cost recovery.

Social host violations may carry a fine of up to $1,000 on the first offense. Subsequent violations carry a fine of up to $2,000 or up to 32 hours of community service or up to 6 months in jail. Violators may also be held liable for injuries sustained by third parties as a result of the minor guest’s negligence. A social host can also be liable for the cost of responding law enforcement services.