x
Breaking News
More () »

Akron bar cited for violating the state of Ohio's COVID-19 health orders

In addition, the permit holder of Karma Café was criminally charged with obstruction.

COLUMBUS, Ohio — Editor's Note: The above video was from September 12, 2020

For the second time in two months, an Akron bar has been cited by the Ohio Investigative Unit (OIU) for violating the state's COVID-19 health orders. 

On Saturday, the OIU announced that Karma Café received a citation for after hours consumption and hindering. OIU agents visited the bar at 1 a.m. and found the establishment to be open and allowing patrons to consume alcoholic beverages. The permit holder of Karma Café left the scene after recognizing agents. 

The OIU says bar staff refused to allow agents to enter. The permit holder was eventually located and was criminally charged with obstruction. 

Karma Café was cited on September 12 for the same violations. They are scheduled to appear in front of the Liquor Control Commission in November.

On July 31, Gov. Mike DeWine signed an order requiring all liquor-permitted businesses to adhere to specific guidelines in an effort to slow the spread of the Coronavirus. Among those rules are alcoholic beverages are not to be served after 10:00 p.m. and must be consumed by 11:00 p.m. However, violations have been a consistent since the rules were enacted.

“We continue to work with our law enforcement partners and local health departments following up on complaints to ensure liquor-permitted establishments maintain compliance, so everyone can enjoy a healthy experience,” said OIU Enforcement Commander Eric Wolf. “When egregious violations are observed, enforcement action is taken. We all need to continue to work together by following the precautions put in place to make these establishments safe and compliant with the directives.”

Also on Saturday, the OIU announced it cited bars in Grand Rapids, Cincinnati, and Wauseon for violating coronavirus protocols.

    

Before You Leave, Check This Out