Two Ohio bars cited for COVID-19 Health Order Violations

Columbus, OH – From Friday, February 12 to Sunday, February 14, The Ohio Investigative Unit charged two bars after they were observed violating COVID-19 health orders. No local bars were cited. The bars that were cited are listed below along with their charge.

Mi Boyz Bar & Grill in Pomeroy received a citation for improper conduct – disorderly activity. Agents cited the establishment at 11:05 p.m. after observing approximately 100 patrons crowded shoulder-to-shoulder, dancing and intermixing social groups. Several patrons were standing while consuming alcohol. Most of the patrons and staff were not wearing facial coverings and little to no social distancing measures were in place. The Ohio State Highway Patrol’s Gallipolis Post to assisted.

Vybez Lounge in Eastlake received a citation for improper conduct – disorderly activity. At 12:10 a.m., agents issued the citation after observing patrons closely congregating throughout the establishment. Consecutive seats at the bar were occupied and additional patrons stood behind to order. Patrons were permitted to stand, congregate and dance while consuming alcoholic beverages. Agents estimate there were approximately 200 patrons inside the liquor permit establishment. Little to no social distancing measures or physical barriers were in place. The liquor permit was previously cited twice on December 26 for improper conduct – disorderly activity. One of those citations on December 26 stemmed from a police case.

All cases listed above will go before the Ohio Liquor Control Commission for potential penalties, including fines and/or the suspension or revocation of liquor permits.