Commonwealth v. M.F. – Stoughton District Court

NO CRIMINAL COMPLAINT ISSUED AGAINST MOTHER WHO ALLEGEDLY PERMITTED 50 PLUS MINORS TO CONSUME ALCOHOL ON HER PREMISES DURING A LOUD, DISRUPTIVE PARTY.

Sharon police were dispatched to the Defendant’s residence due to several calls reporting “explosions.” Upon arrival to the residence, police heard fireworks. There were approximately 50-75 underage youths in the backyard consuming alcohol. Police observed 20-30 empty beer cans and there was vomit on the back porch. Defendant was the homeowner and she was hosting a birthday party for her 17 year-old daughter. One underage youth was seen vomiting and this youth admitted to having consumed too much alcohol. This was the second incident in which police responded to this residence for a similar issue.

Result: At a Clerk-Magistrate’s Hearing, Attorney Gerald J. Noonan introduced extensive evidence regarding steps his client has made to address the issue. For example, his client sought counseling and education regarding successful parenting and underage drinking. In addition, Attorney Noonan presented letters from 7 different people attesting to his client’s character. Finally, Attorney Noonan argued that the issuance of a criminal complaint would jeopardize his client’s employment as a Choir Director, a position she has held for over six years. After considering all the evidence and arguments presented by Attorney Gerald J. Noonan, the Clerk-Magistrate dismissed the criminal complaint.