OHIO, USA — It's been nearly two months since Gov. Mike DeWine signed an order requiring all liquor-permitted businesses to adhere to specific guidelines in an effort to slow the spread of the Coronavirus. However, violations have been a consistent since the rules were enacted.
On Friday, three Northeast Ohio businesses were cited for violating the state's orders. In total, fours establishments were issued citations Friday night by agents with the Ohio Investigative Unit (OIU).
Karma Café, Akron, received an administrative citation for limitation on hours of on-premises consumption and hindering or obstructing an inspection. Agents visited the business just before 12: 30 a.m. from the front door could see several patron inside consuming alcoholic beverages. When attempting to go inside, an employee locked the door, delaying the agents entry. During the delay actions were taken inside to remove the alcoholic beverages.
LA Richies Pavilion Inc., known as Pavilion Restaurant, Geneva On-the-Lake, received an administrative citation for improper conduct – disorderly activity. Agents visited the establishment and observed approximately 75 - 100 patrons who were congregated on the dance floor and in other areas of the premises with no social distancing or physical barriers in place.
Dondrus Inc., known as High Tide Tavern, Geneva On-the-Lake, received an administrative citation for improper conduct – disorderly activity and limitation on hours for sales and on-premises consumption. Agents visited the establishment and observed approximately 50 - 60 patrons tightly packed in a large group in the bar area. Every seat and bar stool was occupied, patrons were leaning over other patrons to order drinks at the bar and standing shoulder to shoulder throughout the establishment with no social distancing or physical barriers in place. Additionally, agents witnessed staff continuing to serve alcoholic beverages as late as 10:55 p.m. to patrons.
Joseph A Benedict, known as Factory 42, Columbiana, received an administrative citation for limitation on hours for sales and on-premises consumption. Agents entered the establishment at 10:30 p.m. and were able to purchase alcoholic beverages.
“When egregious violations are observed, enforcement action is taken,” said OIU Enforcement Commander Eric Wolf. “We all need to continue to work together by following the precautions put in place to make these establishments safe and compliant with the directives.”
These cases will now go before the Ohio Liquor Control Commission for potential penalties, including fines and/or the suspension or revocation of liquor permits.