Southborough – Police Chief Kenneth Paulhus released this statement this afternoon:
On December 31, 2017, at 9:44 p.m., Southborough officers responded to an address on Sears Road for a report of a possible underage drinking party. They were assisted by the Marlborough police.
Upon arrival, officers observed a large group estimated to be well over fifty in the driveway and basement of the home. Many began to exit through the rear basement door. All appeared to be under the age of twenty-one. A large amount of alcohol was observed throughout the basement. Contact was made with resident Benjamin Balcom (age 18), who was in charge of the premises.
All subjects over age eighteen were subject to Field Sobriety Testing before being allowed to leave. All juveniles were released to a parent or guardian. In all, thirty-six individuals were detained ranging in age from fourteen to nineteen. They were from twelve area towns. The Department is finalizing formal notification to parents, and school districts of the individuals involved.
Mr. Balcom is being charged with Ch. 138 Sec. 34, Furnishing Alcohol to a Minor, and Ch. 138 Sec. 34 C, Minor in Possession of Alcohol. He will be summonsed into Westborough District Court at a later date.
