AKRON, Ohio — Four bars in Northeast Ohio were cited by agents from the Ohio Investigative Unit after the state received complaints of “blatant violations of orders in place to reduce the spread of coronavirus.”
According to OIU, Highland Tavern in Akron was issued an administrative citation for improper conduct-disorderly activity. Authorities said that they witnessed between 75 to 80 people at the establishment standing, not social distancing and congregating in groups.
Additionally, agents bought alcohol from the bar at 11:45 p.m. which is after the time permitted by state order. The employees who served the drinks were also not wearing face masks, OIU stated.
The bar previously received notices on three occasions for violating Ohio Department of Health orders, according to OIU.
The second bar, Cedar Wings Lounge in Akron, was issued a citation for limitation on hours for on-premises consumption.
OIU states that the bar served alcohol to patrons past the permitted time allowed by the ODH order.
Authorities also cited Kate's Bar and Grill in Willowick for limitation on hours for on-premises consumption.
Another bar in Willowick, Stage Pass, was issued an administrative citation for improper conduct-disorderly activity and limitation on hours of sales for on-premises consumption.
Authorities said that when OIU agents went inside the establishment around 9:35 p.m., there were between 50 to 75 patrons inside. The bar did not have any physical barriers and guests were not practicing social distancing. Additionally, people walking up to the bar crowded between seated patrons to order drinks.
The bar also served alcohol after the 10 p.m. curfew on alcohol sales and the employees were not wearing masks.
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