CUW FAQs | CUW Application Package | Request More Information

Cooperating Underage Witness Program ( CUW Program )

Dear Parents/Guardians,

I cannot emphasize enough the importance of the Cooperating Underage Witness (CUW) program that is conducted by the Division of Alcohol and Tobacco Enforcement. A recent survey of Delaware youth reported that 1% of fifth graders, 18% of eight graders and 20% of eleventh graders reported that they used tobacco products on a regular basis. Additionally, 10% of the males and 9% of the females surveyed, reported that they have purchased tobacco products from a store clerk.

The report also showed that a direct link exists between those who used tobacco products and those who also abused other substances. An example is the finding that among eleventh graders, of those who smoked tobacco (20%), 63% also reported drinking alcoholic beverages and 60% also reported using marijuana. Of those eleventh graders who do not use tobacco products (80%), only 32% reported drinking alcoholic beverages and only 12% reported using marijuana.

The Division's Cooperating Underage Witness program and our efforts to control youth access to tobacco products and alcoholic beverages would be futile without the support and participation from you and your child. I doubt that there is a retailer who would say "Yes, I knowingly and willingly sell tobacco products and/or alcoholic beverages to minors". However, the facts are clear. Some retailers are selling tobacco products and/or alcoholic beverages to our youth. As a result, the Division is committed to reducing youth access to tobacco products and alcoholic beverages through the use of its Cooperating Underage Witness program.

You can find more information detailing the Cooperating Underage Witness program on this website. I would like to thank you and your child for your cooperation, participation and support of our efforts. I believe that together we can make a difference. If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact the Division of Alcohol and Tobacco Enforcement.

Sincerely,

Director Daniel Kline
Division of Alcohol and Tobacco Enforcement