Dear Parents/Guardian:

We wish to congratulate your senior and each of you, as the support person who has helped your son or daughter reach this significant point in life. It is truly a milestone. Spring graduations are a time of pride and anticipation for bright futures.

 

However, to your local law enforcement agencies, this same period is filled with apprehension. The culmination of high school is a time of celebrations, many of which are risk laden with alcohol use. Often, teenagers travel to or from a graduation or prom party where alcohol or drugs are available and used. Rarely does a spring go by without the tragedy of a teenage alcohol related accident. The tragic and often permanent consequences of negative youth behavior are alarming but also preventable.

 

You as parents possess the opinion most valued by your child. We appeal to you to talk with your graduate about these very real and serious issues. Working together, parents, the school and community can combat this problem and create happier and much safer time for our children.

 

Lastly, it must be mentioned, that at the same time we issue the following alert to adults and youth: There are serious criminal and civil sanctions and penalties that may be brought against any individual who provides alcohol to youth under the age of 21 years of age. In New York State, these penalties may be as great as fines up to $2500.00 and up to on year in jail. Please take this warning seriously.

 

Again, congratulations to you and your child and thank you for your concern in this important matter.

 

State Police Superintendent     District Court Judge

County Sheriff                           Circuit Judge

County Prosecutor or DA         Judicial Family Court Judge

City Police Chief                       Superintendent of Schools

The Letter is then signed by the above people.