Host Charged After Police Alerted to Teen Drinking Party on Swifts Lane

An under-age party with alcohol on Swifts Lane broke up with the arrival of Darien police at about 11:49 p.m. on Friday, May 20, police said, adding that the host was arrested, and his parents, the homeowners, were away.

Darien police described the incident and arrest with this account (including accusations not proven in court):

Police received notification through the online tipline that a party with teenagrs and alcohol was suspected of taking place. A police officer went to the scene. The police report mentions only one other officer at the scene during what was a busy weekend for police in town.

As an officer approached the house, he saw a teenage male in front, standing with a case of beer at his feet. As the officer got closer, someone turned off the indoor lights and numerous youths were heard rushing through the woods.

Two vehicles were left at the scene, and police expected to follow up to contact the owners. One youth later returned. His parents were called, and he was taken home. He was not charged with a crime.

The officer went behind the house and saw many party cups and an 18-year-old resident who said he was the host of the party. He said he didn’t provide any of the alcohol and didn’t know who brought it or how it was obtained. The man said his parents, the homeowners, were on a trip out of town.

Police, following standard practice, went inside the house to check to see if any youths were incapacitated and in distress. They didn’t find any. They did find a lot of beer cans and party cups in several rooms throughout the first floor. A table had been set up in one room to play beer pong.

The host said he had 20 to 30 people at the house. He was charged with permitting a minor to possess alcohol, a misdemeanor. He was arrested, booked at Darien Police Headquarters and later released on $200 bond, with a court date of June 1.