California's Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control is announcing the arrest of a bar owner near Lodi who is accused of selling fake vaccine cards. The Old Corner Saloon in Clements was being investigated after a tip that the bar was selling these fraudulent cards on multiple occasions in the month of April. ABC agents then arrested the business owner and found that person was also in possession of an unregistered firearm, which is a felony offense. ABC said they are also looking into possible criminal charges against another employee at the same bar. The San Joaquin County Sheriff's Department and the San Joaquin District Attorney Office served more search warrants at the property and found materials that were used to make the alleged fake vaccine cards.
"It is disheartening to have members in our community show flagrant disregard for public health in the midst of a pandemic. Distributing, falsifying or purchasing fake COVID-19 vaccine cards is against the law and endangers yourself and those around you. The San Joaquin County District Attorney’s Office is grateful for the partnership with the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control for their work in this case” said San Joaquin County District Attorney Tori Verber Salazar.
In addition to the charges brought against the individuals involved, ABC said they are also looking into charges against the business itself which could lead to removal of the alcohol license. KCRA 3 reports that about 8 cards were purchased in this operation at around $20 a piece. They also say the owner is identified at Todd Anderson, who is facing the firearms charges and falsifying governmental seals.