Boomers in Ironton Takes On Ohio Liquor Commission
Ironton, Ohio- Boomers Bar, located at 1123 S 3rd St, had their day “in court” as they answered to citations from the Ohio Liquor Commission.
The witnesses for the Ohio Investigative Unit (plainclothes officers we call the Ohio Secret Police) testified they heard loud music and saw many cars parked on both sides of the street. This prompted them to make entry into the bar. The agent stated they observed 60-80 people in the bar and nobody (including staff) was wearing facemasks.
In addition, the agent stated they made an alcohol purchase after the curfew hour. Here are a couple of screenshots presented in the hearing.
Testifying for Boomers was Danny Lee Dickess (the liquor permit holder) and Carolyn Bryant (the bartender accused of serving after hours).
Neither party denied the allegations from the OIU agents. Ms. Bryant was very forthright when she made her sworn testimony saying, “That was the first good night we had in a year”. She indicated that they were behind on rent and taxes and they were happy to have the business.
The Ohio Liquor Board will render their decision in the coming days.
The Ohio Liquor Commission is comprised of three Commissioners appointed by the Governor for six-year terms. They are Ron O’Brien, Chairman, James E. Carnes, Vice Chairman, and Dr. Mike Stinziano.
When a liquor permit holder appears before the commission, it is very much structured like an appearance in court. All parties are sworn in at the beginning. The liquor permit holder (defendant) is given an opportunity to plead 1 of 3 options. They may plead “Admission”, “Denial” or Admission with Stipulations” to the citations.
A representative from the state presents evidence obtained through local police and the Ohio Investigative Unit. That evidence includes a written report, photographs, any video obtained, and even sketches provided by law enforcement officials. Those law enforcement officials are present and questioned about details in the report and any other questions the commissioners may have.
Next, the permit holder is questioned about the report and the incident. The permit holder may appear with counsel or simply on their own. They are allowed to ask questions of the commissioners, state representatives, and any law enforcement present for the hearing.
Once the state has concluded its case, the permit holder has the option to make a closing statement.
At the conclusion of the hearing, the chairman of the commission lets all parties know that the panel will review the evidence and testimony presented. A decision is not made at the end of the hearing. Rather, the parties will be notified within 7 to 10 days as to the potential suspension of liquor license and or fines that will be assessed.
We will update you once the decision has been made.
