OTTUMWA, IOWA -- The Ottumwa Police Department is cracking down on underage drinking, thanks to a partnership with the Eighth Judicial District of Iowa and the Juvenile Courts System.

According to a press release from Sgt. Farrington of the Ottumwa Police Department, on Wednesday, September 19 and Tuesday, September 25, Ottumwa Police conducted compliance checks at several Ottumwa businesses. At each check, an underage person attempted to purchase alcohol, while under the supervision of an undercover officer.

As a result of the check, eight restaurants were cited for selling alcohol to a person under the legal age, a simple misdemeanor. The restaurants charged are as follows:

-Stop and Go Drive-Thru and Deli, 516 S. Madison St.

-El Rancho Grande, 206 S. Jefferson St.

-Benchwarmer's Eatery and Sports Lounge, 2209 Roemer Ave.

-Applebee's Restaurant, 1303 Vaughn Dr.

-Supermercado Cerro Grande, 311 E. Main St.

-Los Jimadores Restaurant, 1111 N. Quincy Ave.

-Uncle Buck's Bar and Grill, 518 Church St.

-The Legend - Italian Restaurant, 345 Richmond Ave.

The project that included the two days' compliance checks is funded through a grant from the Eighth Judicial District of Iowa. The grant and partnership will focus on enforcement of drinking laws and community education.