Walton Co. deputies arrest 31 at 'open house party'

MIRAMAR BEACH, Fla. (WALA) - Thirty-one underage drinkers were arrested after a Walton County Sheriff’s Deputy discovered an “open house party” at a Miami St. home, the sheriff's office said.

Authorities said all of the underage arrestees were charged as minors in possession of alcohol. The lease owner was charged with possession of alcoholic beverages by persons under the age of 21 and holding an open house party.

The deputy who discovered the party said he saw the several people drinking beer in a pool outside the home. The exterior doors of the home were open, allowing him a clear view into the residence, as well as probable cause to enter, he said.

The WCSO said they had responded to the residence over the past few days for the same issue.

The deputy said he saw subjects consuming Bud Light beer that appeared to be under the legal drinking age; he said several subjects ran toward the rear of the residence. Everyone in the house was detained for further investigation.

That investigation determined 31 subjects were minors in possession of alcohol and arrested them — along with the lease holder — and transported them to the Walton County Jail for processing.