COLUMBUS, Ohio - Agents from the Ohio Investigative Unit have cited nine more businesses after receiving complaints of what authorities say were “blatant” violations of orders in place to reduce the spread of the coronavirus.

Undercover agents say they visited liquor establishments in Columbus, Toledo, Akron, Willowick, and the Cincinnati area and witnessed activities including groups of people not socially-distanced, unmasked employees, and after-hours drinking.

Under current restrictions imposed by the Ohio Liquor Control Board, the last call is at 10 p.m.

The below cases will go before the Ohio Liquor Control Commission for potential penalties, including fines and the suspension or revocation of liquor permits.    

Cincinnati Area

Poor Michael’s Bar, Springfield Township, Hamilton County - Administrative citation for limitation on hours for sales and on-premises consumption. Agents saw patrons drinking shots, mixed drinks, and beer, as well as a bartender preparing more drinks at 11 p.m.  Agents, bought mixed drinks, a shot, and a beer.

Columbus

Elite - Administrative citation for improper conduct – disorderly activity. Agents saw groups of people standing and drinking; employees not wearing facial coverings, and an unmasked crowd four-people deep pressed against a stage where a concert was being held.

Dahlia Nightclub - Administrative citation for improper conduct – disorderly activity. Agents saw customers standing while drinking; employees not wearing facial coverings, and unmasked patrons dancing with no social distancing measures in place.

Buckeye Crazy Restaurant and Sports Bar - Administrative citation for limitation on hours of sales for on-premises consumption. Agents bought alcoholic beverages at 10:20 p.m. and again at 10:30 p.m.

Toledo

Jed’s on Campus - Administrative citation for improper conduct – disorderly activity. Agents saw patrons standing in groups inside with no measures in place to enforce social distancing. Some employees and staff were not wearing face coverings.

Akron

Highland Tavern - Administrative citation for improper conduct – disorderly activity and limitation on hours for sales and on-premises consumption. Agents reported seeing approximately 75 - 80 customers standing, without social distancing and congregating in groups. Agents also say they purchased alcoholic beverages at 11:45 p.m. from employees who were not wearing masks. The Highland Tavern has been notified three times before about violations of the Ohio Department of Health orders.

Cedar Wings Lounge - Administrative citation for limitation on hours for on-premises consumption. Agents saw patrons drinking alcoholic beverages at 11:15 p.m.

Willowick

Stage Pass - Administrative citation for improper conduct – disorderly activity and limitation on hours of sales for on-premises consumption. At 9:35 p.m., agents say approximately 50 - 75 patrons were inside the bar, which had no physical barriers or social distance between patrons or groups of patrons. Other customers approached the bar and crowded between seated patrons to order beverages, according to agents. Also, agents say alcohol was being served after 10 p.m. by employees not wearing masks.

Kate’s Bar & Grill - Administrative citation for limitation on hours for on-premises consumption. At approximately 11:20 p.m., agents saw several vehicles outside of the business. Inside they saw about 15 patrons, several of whom were drinking alcoholic beverages.