Four establishments in Ohio, including three in Northeast Ohio, were named for violating health orders issued by the state after receiving multiple complaints, according to the Ohio Investigative Unit.
Highland Tavern
Akron police issued a warning to the Akron bar on August 2 for not following the order that stops alcohol sales every night at 10 p.m. Then, on August 6, OIU agents began an investigation into the establishment and published a report of infringement for continuing to sell alcohol beyond the happiness of the state.
Staff at Highland Tavern told agents they would not follow the premise and would continue to operate as normal, OIU said.
On Friday night at midnight, agents conducted a check on compliance after receiving a complaint from a citizen. Once at the bar, OIU agents saw a lack of social distance, staff did not wear masks, guests gathered in large groups while drinking alcohol and Bartenders continued to sell and drink liquor to guests beyond happiness.
Highland Tavern was issued two citations for limiting hours of on-site consumption and one citation for misconduct – disorder of activity.
Town House Bar
OIU received complaints from citizens and the local health department about the shed in Marietta stating that it was alcohol abuse and also unsanitary conditions. Complaints indicate that there was no social distance, masks were not worn by staff or guests, concerts with large crowds were held and the alcohol wave was not followed.
At 1:35 a.m. Saturday morning, agents entered Town House Bar and saw guests consuming alcoholic beverages on the patio outside and inside around the bar. An agency could also buy an alcoholic beverage past the fourth.
The bar received a citation for limitation on hours for on-farm consumption and incentive conditions.
Positive Vibes Social Club
OIU agents worked with police in East Cleveland to investigate the bar and observed multiple violations, including a complete lack of social distances and guests meeting at the bar.
The bar received a citation for misconduct – activity disorder.
Sportsman’s Lounge
Working alongside East Cleveland police, OIU was notified that there were possible violations that occurred at the pub.
Between 11.45pm and 12.15pm agents consistently observed traffic to and from the establishment.
OIU agents also observed large groups of people gathering in the parking lot, consuming alcoholic beverages and noting a pop-up tent with tables, chairs and music outside.
After entering the pub, agents observed a guest buying six alcoholic beverages. Staff told agents the drinks were for sale, but they were in no way sealed or packed and guests were allowed to consume the beverages on the easy patio outside the establishment, OIU said.
Sportsman’s Lounge received a citation for misconduct – impairment of activity and restriction of hours for on-site consumption.
The cases of the four establishments in Ohio will go before the Ohio Liquor Control Commission and all four institutions will receive fines and / or the suspension or revocation of their liquor licenses, OIU said.
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