OHIO, USA — As the state of Ohio- and the rest of the country- continues its fight against the ongoing Coronavirus pandemic; officials are still working to crack down on businesses not adhering to guidelines put in place to slow the spread of the disease.
Overnight, agents with the Ohio Investigative Unit cited five businesses, including Game on Lakewood and Avenue Tap House, here in Northeast Ohio, for failure to comply with health orders put in place by Ohio Governor Mike DeWine.
Game on Lakewood was cited for improper conduct and disorderly activity. According to reports, social distancing measures or physical barriers were not observed throughout the business. Agents also witnessed patrons congregated in one large area while consuming alcohol and were unable to move freely through the crowd.
The second Lakewood business, Avenue Tap House, was also cited Friday for allowing consumption after-hours. According to reports, Agents visited the business around 11: 15 p.m. and witnessed approximately 30 customers in the back of the establishment consuming alcohol.
The other citations include establishments in Columbus and Massillon:
C&J LLC., known as C Jay’s Bar and Grill, Massillon, received a citation for after-hours consumption – Rule 80. Agents visited C Jay’s Bar and Grill at 11:45 p.m. and witnessed approximately 10 to 12 patrons consuming alcohol inside the premises.
10384 LLC., known as Fenders, Columbus, received a citation for after-hours sale – Rule 80. At 10:40 p.m., agents purchased and received an alcoholic beverage from the on-duty bartender.
Las Munecas LLC., known as Grand Champion North, Columbus, received citations for improper conduct – disorderly activity, after-hours consumption – Rule 80, hindering or obstructing an inspection, and permit not posted. At 12:30 a.m., agents witnessed patrons consuming alcohol inside the premises. For approximately 5 minutes, staff refused entry to the agents after they identified themselves as law enforcement. Staff told agents it was a private party. While they were being refused entry, agents could see staff clearing alcoholic beverages from tables and the bar area. Once inside, agents observed employees and a majority of the 50 patrons not wearing masks.
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.
