Which of the following individuals would be LEAST likely to face prosecution under the Volstead Act?

• A. a distiller
• B. a bar owner
• C. a cocktail lounge manager
• D. a woman who buys ingredients to produce alcohol at home

Answer: (D)

The key idea is that the Volstead Act targets the production, sale, and distribution of intoxicating liquor, with enforcement focused on those actively making or distributing alcohol rather than people who merely obtain ingredients for private use.

A distiller is directly involved in manufacturing alcohol, so they would be a clear target under the Act. A bar owner or a cocktail lounge manager facilitates the sale and service of alcohol, which makes them central to illegal distribution and provisioning, and thus they are also likely to face prosecution.

Buying ingredients to produce alcohol at home, on the other hand, does not by itself constitute manufacturing or distribution under the Act. If no actual production occurs, there is no illegal liquor being produced, sold, or transported, so this individual would be least likely to face prosecution.