Bernie’s Wines and Liquors in West Fargo Tests New Forensic ID Scanner To Combat Underage Drinking

WEST FARGO, N.D. (KVRR) — Bernie’s Wines and Liquors in West Fargo is the first liquor store to get a forensic ID scanner to help combat underage drinking through a new partnership.

West Fargo Police and Fargo Cass Public Health are teaming up to offer the scanners.

Chief Pete Nielsen says the fake IDs in our region are increasing in quality and becoming easier for underage people to get.

He says the addition of the scanners will be a great tool for local liquor establishments to consistently identify fraudulent ID cards.

The scanner completes a nearly 50-point inspection of the ID to view features such as UV ink and microprinting in less than five seconds with approximately 98% accuracy.

Each scanner costs around $5,300.

Eight of them are available to be loaned to businesses at no charge due to a North Dakota Department of Health grant.