Winter Park Doctor Cleared After Hosting Underage Drinking Party

UPDATE: A Winter Park physician, Hao Nhu Tran, will not face criminal charges after hosting a house party where minors allegedly consumed alcohol, leading to a 15-year-old girl’s hospitalization. This decision comes just days after police reported the incident, raising serious concerns about the safety of minors in her care.

On October 11, 2023, authorities responded to Tran’s home on Chestnut Avenue shortly after midnight, following multiple reports of children appearing “falling down drunk.” Tran, 51, claimed she was hosting a gathering for her son’s school, but uninvited minors from other schools also attended, according to her arrest affidavit.

Inside the home, police discovered numerous empty alcohol containers, including brands like High Noon and Smirnoff, tucked away in tied trash bags. The situation escalated when Tran revealed a 15-year-old girl had “passed out” from drinking. She found the girl in an upstairs bedroom and, after ensuring she was breathing, called the girl’s mother, who subsequently dialed 911.

Upon arrival at the hospital, the girl reportedly exhibited signs of severe intoxication, including vomiting and disorientation. Despite the alarming circumstances, the girl’s mother indicated she did not wish to press charges against Tran, raising questions about accountability. The affidavit noted that Tran initially hesitated to call for emergency assistance.

In a court filing on Monday, prosecutors confirmed they would not pursue charges against Tran, citing that evidence presented at trial would likely not overcome one or more affirmative defenses. This decision has sparked debate regarding the responsibilities of adults supervising minors and the consequences of underage drinking.

Tran, who specializes in ear, nose, and throat diseases according to her profile at AdventHealth, has not publicly commented on the charges or the decision to drop them. The implications of this case extend beyond legal considerations, touching on the health and safety of children in community settings.

As this situation develops, many are left questioning the standards and accountability of adults in similar circumstances. The community continues to discuss the broader issues of underage drinking and parental responsibility.

Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story and its impact on the local community.