Authorities busted Bronx bodegas for selling "nutcracker"—a sweet cocktail illegally sold to underage drinkers at delis, convenience stores and barbershops across the city. Cops arrested two bodega employees and the state suspended the beer licenses at two Mott Haven delis after an under-aged, undercover auxiliary cop was able to purchase the homemade drinks. "This is so outrageous, we are going to seek revocation," said State Liquor Authority Deputy Chief Executive Officer Michael Jones.
According to the Daily News, police arrested 44-year-old Rodriguez Deli Food Center worker Maximo Bourdaer and 26-year-old Juaquin Deli worker Raul Argueta for selling "nutcracker," which comes in flavors like "Finding Nemo" and "Sponge Bob." Officials say the sugary drink is made to appeal to young drinkers. A police source said "[s]elling it to kids is a no-no," and noted that busts "are conducted periodically throughout the city and will be continued to be operated."
Despite the risk of arrest, "nutcracker" sellers say they can make about year $20,000 per year hawking Styrofoam cups of the street cocktail.
