Which scenario constitutes a criminal action under the code?

• A. A retailer sells alcohol to a minor.
• B. A retailer posts a late-night sign.
• C. A retailer fails to maintain records.
• D. A retailer operates with a valid license.

Answer: (A)

Providing alcohol to a minor directly violates age-verification requirements and is punishable as a criminal act under the code. The laws are designed to prevent underage consumption by requiring retailers to check IDs and refuse sales to those under the legal age. When a retailer sells alcohol to someone who is underage, that sale constitutes a crime with penalties that can include fines, license actions, or more, depending on the jurisdiction.

The other scenarios involve regulatory or administrative aspects rather than criminal acts: posting a late-night sign is generally just advertising, not a crime; failing to maintain records can trigger civil or licensing penalties but isn’t typically a criminal offense; and operating with a valid license means the business is in compliance and not committing a crime.