Chillicothe – A local watering hole has been issued a liquor violation after investigators found they were serving drinks past the “last Call Order” influenced by Gov. Dewine to stop the spread of COVID-19. Along with that investigation they found other violations.
According to the Ohio Investigation Unit a part of Ohio State Highway Patrol on August 22, 2020 Wagner’s Roadhouse Bar, Chillicothe, received an administrative citation for violations of improper conduct – disorderly activities and unsanitary conditions.
Agents visited the establishment at approximately 10 p.m. and immediately observed a group of several patrons crowded around the main bar, not social distancing, with many standing while consuming alcoholic beverages. On the outdoor patio, agents observed live music with patrons standing while consuming alcoholic beverages and dancing.
Agents observed signage posted around the establishment promoting social distancing guidelines, mask usage and floor markers, but none were being followed or enforced by employees. Agents conducted an administrative inspection and found an additional violation of unsanitary conditions.
These cases will go before the Ohio Liquor Control Commission for potential penalties, including fines and/or the suspension or revocation of liquor permits.
“We continue to work with our law enforcement partners and local health departments following up on complaints to ensure liquor-permitted establishments maintain compliance, so everyone can enjoy a healthy experience,” said OIU Enforcement Commander Eric Wolf. “When egregious violations are observed, enforcement action is taken. 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.”
The Ohio Investigative Unit is made up of fully-sworn, plainclothes peace officers responsible for enforcing Ohio’s alcohol, tobacco, and food stamp fraud laws. Agents conduct compliance checks to ensure the liquor permit premises are complying with the Ohio Liquor Control Act. Agents also act on complaints of illegal activity on liquor permit premises. In addition to providing the safety checks associated with the COVID-19 directives, OIU agents continue to perform their normal compliance checks to ensure the liquor permit premises are complying with the Ohio Liquor Control Act.
This CHillicothe Bar wasnt the only location to recieve citations, more around the state were fined. Also Blossom Lounge, Cleveland, Beer Barrel Saloon, Put-in-Bay, and Thursday’s Lounge, Akron.
