CLEVELAND, Ohio – State agents cited three Cleveland nightclubs Friday night for violating orders from the Ohio Department of Health to reduce the spread of the coronavirus.
Agents from the Ohio Investigation Unit, in collaboration with the Cleveland Department of Public Health and the Cleveland Police, visited the businesses after receiving complaints.
State agents issued the quotes after witnessing the violations. Dante’s Inferno and Backyard Bocce and FWD Flats were cited at the East Bank of the Flats and Club Paradis in the Warehouse District, depending on the state. All three businesses were cited for allowing improper conduct in violation of state health orders.
At Dante’s Inferno and Backyard Bocce, officers and agents watched customers congregate without social distance measures and engaged in various restricted activities, including arcade games and bocce ball.
At FWD Flats, several hundred people were observed on the premises, gathering on a dance floor, bar, and tables. No social distancing measures were applied.
At Club Paradis, officers found 150 people in a very small space and no social distancing measures were applied. Clients, dancers, and other staff were having direct and repeated contact.
Cases will go to the Ohio Alcoholic Beverage Control Commission for possible penalties, including fines and / or suspension or revocation of alcoholic beverage permits.
Warnings were issued at several other businesses. In a statement, the Ohio Investigation Unit said its agents would carry out further compliance checks Saturday night. Your agents are responsible for enforcing Ohio’s alcohol, tobacco and food stamp fraud laws.
“The goal of these compliance checks is to safeguard all users by ensuring that liquor stores maintain compliance, so they can continue to serve their customers and everyone can enjoy a safe and healthy experience,” said Michelle Thourot, agent in charge of OIU. in a sentence.
“Educating liquor permit holders about the order has been a priority for the Ohio Investigation Unit, however, when serious violations are observed, enforcement measures are taken,” Thourot said. “We are asking customers to help their favorite bars and restaurants by following established precautions to make these establishments safe and compliant with directives.”
