You cannot drink alcoholic beverages on public property in Barrington.

Nicholas A. Merlino, 21, of 17 Charles St., was cited by Barrington police early Monday morning, Oct. 15, for drinking a can of beer on the East Bay Bike Path. He faces a $20 fine.

Barrington has an ordinance, 63-1, that prohibits the possession and consumption of alcoholic beverages on public property, said Barrington Police Chief John LaCross.

Merlino was with a group of friends, all legal age, who were apparently playing loud music behind the car wash at 286 Maple Ave. at approximately 1:46 am.

A caller contacted police about “two suspicious vehicles” parked near the car wash. The occupants then were observed getting out of the vehicles and heading toward the bike path, according to the police report.

Patrol Officers Michael Gregorzek and Joshua Melo responded and found the five males with 7 cans of beer. Only Merlino was drinking. It was the only can opened, said LaCross.