Los Angeles Kings player Jeff Carter starred in a new online video promoted Monday targeting underage drug and alcohol use.
Teaming up with the city of Hermosa Beach Police Department to produce the roughly 3-minute public service announcement “Be Your Own Hometown Hero,” the Fourth of July-themed video reviews the rules and consequences faced by underage drinkers and drug users in the South Bay.
“Throughout the Beach Cities, anyone under 21 years of age caught with an open container will have their license revoked or withheld,” Carter said. “Play smart and by the rules.”
The video plays out various scenarios and reminds underage users that getting caught in public is a misdemeanor offense, which will result in an arrest as well as the loss of a driver’s license or suspension of a license being issued.
“This Fourth of July, don’t lose your independence,” is the repeated motto.
Hermosa’s City Council also recently passed a Social Host Ordinance that holds guardians accountable for underage drinking at residences, with fines ranging from $2,500 to $10,000.
Hermosa Beach Police Chief Sharon Papa noted that Carter, who plays center/wing, lives in Hermosa Beach, and many other Kings players also live in the South Bay, which makes them inspiring role models for youth who live there.
“We’re incredibly grateful for the team donating their time and efforts to engage the youth in our community and continue the conversation addressing underage drinking in our communities,” Papa said.
The video has been shared on the Hermosa Beach Police Department Facebook page and on YouTube.
— Wire reports