Whether it’s using an older sibling’s ID, splicing up a state-issued license or simply ordering a fake online, the pursuit of alcohol while underage could be considered as traditional to the college experience as late-night cram sessions or pulling pranks on floormates.
Yet obtaining a fake ID has never been easier or more convincing, as hundreds of websites offer high-quality IDs shipped directly to consumers in as little as three to five business days.
With the potential for fully scannable IDs with proper black-light markings and advertised success rates at more than 90 percent, businesses and law enforcement have to remain tenacious in their pursuit.
However, as the arms race between underage drinkers and law enforcement escalates, distributors and bars face mounting challenges to identify minors in a world where the line between fake and authentic is becoming more and more blurred.
Putting fakes to the test
Michael Mansour, the owner of Spartan Spirits, 221 Ann St., said there always has been a demand for fake IDs. Mansour, 35, said he has developed an eye for spotting fakes during his five years as the store’s owner.
“I rarely need to call the cops; however, if I or any members of my staff have any questions about an ID, we will have the police come down to check it out,” Mansour said.
Mansour mentioned that although IDs have become more sophisticated, there always are dead giveaways on imposters.
Ducking under the counter, Mansour emerged with two boxes full of fake IDs, rubber-banded together by state, which he has lost count of long ago. Using a black light behind the counter, he demonstrated that many recent fakes do have the same identifying marks as legitimate IDs. However, the difference became apparent when he began bending the fake ID, which cracked and splintered under scrutiny.
“Real IDs don’t crack like that,” he said. “With Michigan IDs in particular, you should be able to touch them corner to corner without causing damage.”
Mansour said his preference to err on the side of caution has ensured Spartan Spirits’ reputation and strong relationship with both the community and the East Lansing Police Department.
Remaining vigilant
The use of fakes isn’t limited to the purchase of alcohol at convenience stores.
Mike Krueger, general manager at Crunchy’s, 254 W. Grand River Ave., said students have consistently tried to get into bars underage and more authentic-looking IDs are becoming commonplace, requiring employees to keep a watchful eye.
“Fakes are getting better, and (it is) tougher to tell with out-of-state IDs,” he said.
Krueger said the Crunchy’s staff strives to remain up to date on the most active states used in fakes. Staff members also are allowed to ask for a second form of identification if they question the authenticity of the ID.
Krueger also said there are bounties in place for fake IDs in an effort to keep staff motivated to find underage patrons.
For Cody Wilson, a cook and recently trained bouncer at Crunchy’s, his first night on the job was an active one.
Wilson was working the door when a man produced an ID that had him weighing 70 pounds more than what he appeared to be. With such a significant discrepancy, Wilson sought the support of another member of staff, who confirmed his suspicions. When he failed to produce a second form of ID, Wilson gave him a choice.
“I told him he had two options: either he could wait for the police to arrive to examine the ID, or he could leave without incident,” Wilson recalled. He said the patron elected to leave, albeit without his ID, which Wilson said he suspected was an ID of an older sibling.
Worth the risk?
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Electrical engineering senior Mathew Myers said he obtained two fakes from China when a group of friends placed an order after his freshman year. During his sophomore and junior years, Myers said he was able to purchase alcohol with the ID, but had mixed results with bars.
“The first time I got it taken away was at PT O’Malley’s and the bouncer knew it was fake immediately, which sucked,” Myers said.
His second ID was confiscated at Harper’s Restaurant & Brewpub, 131 Albert Ave., just two weeks before his 21st birthday.
“The guy questioned me on a bunch of the information on it,” he said.
After Myers correctly gave all of the information on the license, the bouncer pulled out the ID book and asked him if it was indeed fake.
“I debated saying no, but I only had two weeks to my (birthday), so I told him it was and I left,” Myers said.
Even though he lost his IDs, Myers said he thinks in the end it was all worth it. Considering he was able purchase for both himself and his friends, as well as having the ID during spring break, Myers said the IDs more than paid for themselves.
Even though most students choose to leave their IDs behind when confronted, there are those who decide to tangle with the law. Individuals caught with a fraudulent state ID can face up to 93 days in jail or a fine of no more than $100 or both, according to Michigan Liquor Control Code))/mileg.aspx?page=GetObject&objectname=mcl-436-1703.
Sgt. Scot Sexton with the East Lansing Police Department said the pursuit of underage drinkers remains a top priority for the department. Sexton said officers often are called to bars to aid in authenticating IDs, though it is not uncommon for officers to arrive only to find the individual has left.
“We don’t want anyone who is underage consuming alcohol in bars. However, it is ultimately up to employees and managers to enforce the law,” Sexton said.
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