Five Ohio bars cited for COVID-19 Health Order Violations

Columbus, OH – From Monday, March 8 to Saturday, March 13, The Ohio Investigative Unit charged five 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.

New Manhattan in Hubbard was cited for improper conduct – disorderly activity. Agents said they observed approximately 100 patrons inside the overcrowded establishment. There were no social distancing measures in place and patrons were intermingling with other social groups throughout the premises.

The Corner Bar in Austinburg received a citation for improper conduct – disorderly activity. At 10:35PM, agents and deputies from the Ashtabula County Sheriff’s Office said they observed patrons closely congregated and occupying consecutive seats at the bar. Additional patrons stood behind to others order. Patrons were permitted to stand and congregate while consuming alcoholic beverages. Many of the staff and patrons were not wearing facial coverings. Little to no social distancing measures or physical barriers were in place. This location was cited in August for violating afterhours consumption – Rule 80. The Ohio Liquor Control Commission report can be found here.

Rare Cherry in Ashtabula received a citation for improper conduct – disorderly activity. Agents and deputies from the Ashtabula County Sheriff’s Office entered the establishment at 11:40PM and said they observed little to no social distancing measures or physical barriers in place. Patrons were closely congregated throughout the premises, occupying consecutive seats at the bar. Additional patrons stood behind others to order. Patrons were also permitted to stand and congregate while consuming alcoholic beverages.

Nave Lounge & Entertainment in Ashtabula received a citation for improper conduct – disorderly activity. At 12:10AM, agents and deputies with the Ashtabula County Sheriff’s Office said they observed patrons closely congregated throughout the premises, occupying consecutive seats at the bar and standing behind others to order. Patrons were also permitted to stand and congregate near the pool table and patio entry while consuming alcoholic beverages. Little to no social distancing measures or physical barriers were in place. Most of the patrons and staff were not wearing facial coverings.

Jackies Sports Bar & Grill in Painesville received a citation for improper conduct – disorderly activity. At 8:55PM, agents said they observed approximately 125 patrons on the premises. Patrons were crowded around the bar and occupying consecutive seats, while others stood behind them to order. Patrons were permitted to congregate throughout the establishment while consuming alcoholic beverages. Little to no social distancing measures or physical barriers were in place. Most of the patrons and bar staff were not wearing facial coverings.

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.