Investigative Unit celebrates 80 years

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The men and women of the Ohio Investigative Unit on Monday celebrated 80 years of service to
Ohio.While prohibition ended on Dec. 5, 1933, General Code of Ohio 6064 did not become effective until Dec.
23, 1933.Included in the code was the creation of the Ohio Department of Liquor Control to oversee the
production and sale of alcoholic beverages in the state. The enforcement division fell under then Department
of Liquor Control and was charged with conducting investigations of licensed and unlicensed liquor sales
locations throughout the state. The agents were also tasked with stopping illegal sales, distribution and
manufacturing of beer, and alcohol for public consumption.In 1995, the enforcement division was transferred
to the Ohio Department of Public Safety. Over the years more enforcement efforts have been added including
food stamp and tobacco enforcement. In 1999, the enforcement division was renamed the Ohio Investigative
Unit. On January 1, 2013, OIU was integrated into the structure of the Ohio State Highway Patrol."The
liquor industry and laws have changed over the past 80 years, but liquor law enforcement continues to be
crucial in the effort to contribute to a safer Ohio," said Ohio Department of Public Safety Director
John Born. "I am proud of the work they do each day."During 80 years of enforcing the state’s
liquor laws, OIU has been involved in investigating and enforcing cases including bootlegging, moonshine,
illegal gambling, drugs, weapons, underage drinking, prostitution and tracing-back the sale of alcohol after
an alcohol-related crash.As OIU celebrates 80 years of service, they would like to honor Agent James Burns
who on Nov. 7, 1964, was shot to death in the line of duty as he attempted to arrest a suspect in an illegal
liquor sales establishment in Xenia. In 1991, Agent Burns’ name was officially dedicated to be placed on the
wall at the National Peace Officer’s Memorial in Washington, D.C.

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