WELLS — A complaint to Wells Police regarding a party at the beach on July 11 resulted in six teenagers from Massachusetts being charged with underage drinking.

Joseph Mirabella, Riley Zaya, Justin Trevisani, Jonathan Sears, Jared Marguard and Joseph Rebeiro, all 18, all from Wilmington, Massachusetts, were issued summons for illegal possession of liquor by a minor around 10 p.m. on July 11 at Wells Beach.

Lt. Jerry Congdon said the young people were found congregating around a bonfire, drinking beer and listening to loud music. Fires are not allowed on Wells Beach. The only beach fires are allowed at in Wells is Moody Beach, and by permit only.

“The mere fact they had a fire was enough to draw attention to them,” said Congdon.

Congdon said it is believed they brought the beer with them from Massachusetts.

The young adults were very polite and cooperative with police, he said. The father of one of the young people told police he was watching a ball game at a nearby house and was unaware that the young adults, who had recently graduated from high school, had beer with them at the beach.

Congdon said the young people had gathered not far away from a walkway to the beach. He said beaches are well used in the evenings by tourists, many who don’t hesitate to call the police with concerns.

The six young adults are scheduled to appear at York District Court on Sept. 18.

According to state law, illegal possession of liquor by a minor is a civil violation and carries a penalty of a $200 to $400 fine.

— Staff Writer Liz Gotthelf can be contacted at 282-1535, ext. 325 or egotthelf@journaltribune.com.