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The Electric Co. in Richland County receives 5th citation for violating COVID-19 health orders

The bar now faces possible revocation of its liquor license.

ONTARIO, Ohio — A local bar has been accused yet again of violating the state of Ohio's health orders meant to curb the spread of COVID-19.

The Electric Co. in Ontario, a.k.a. Planet Rock, received its fifth citation Friday night after being accused of disorderly activity by not adhering to social distancing guidelines. Agents from the Ohio Investigative Unit say they saw a line of people waiting to enter the establishment along with roughly 60 people inside "with little to no social distancing."

The alleged violations occurred around 11:35 p.m., well past the state's current 11 p.m. curfew. Multiple people on scene were also apparently seen drinking alcohol, also against Gov. Mike DeWine's current orders.

The Electric Co. has been cited four previous times for disorderly activity dating back to September, and last month was also accused of hindering inspection. The business has already been hit with a one-week suspension of its liquor license, set to go into effect Feb. 24 unless a fine is paid.

The case now goes before the Ohio Liquor Control Commission, where Planet Rock could have its license to sell alcohol permanently revoked. State officials have already imposed such penalties for several Northeast Ohio businesses, including Akron's Highland Tavern and Cleveland's Barley House. The latter plans to appeal the ruling.

Due to a continued decline of Ohio's active coronavirus hospitalization numbers, DeWine has said the 11 p.m.-5 a.m. curfew could be lifted as soon as next week. However, directives against large crowds at businesses such as bars and restaurants will remain in place.

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