PUT-IN-BAY, Ohio — Two bars in Put-in-Bay were cited over the weekend following complaints of blatant violations of the state’s COVID-19 orders, according to the Ohio Investigative Unit.
OIU agents visited Mist Bar and T&J’s Smokehouse in Put-in-Bay and issued citations to both after observing multiple violations.
At Mist Bar, agents observed numerous patrons standing and congregating with no social distancing measures at the bar, swim-up bar or in the pool. The bar received an administrative citation for improper conduct—disorderly activity, OIU said.
At T&J’s Smokehouse, agents observed patrons inside the establishment standing in large groups with the majority not wearing masks and a packed patio with people shoulder-to-shoulder on the dance floor. Agents also observed security staff wearing masks around their necks as they checked IDs in a long line of people waiting to enter the bar. T&J's Smokehouse also received an administrative citation for improper conduct—disorderly activity, according to OIU.
Both establishments will have their cases heard before the Ohio Liquor Control Commission. Both will face fines and the potential suspension or revocation of their liquor permits, OIU said.
OIU said that a number of other warnings were issued to bars and restaurants over the weekend.
“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 all patrons can enjoy a healthy experience,” said OIU Agent-in-Charge Michelle Thourot. “We educate liquor-permit holders about the order and share information about the best practices agents have observed at compliant establishments to help those who are finding it more difficult. However, when egregious violations are observed, enforcement action is taken. We all need to work together by following the precautions put in place to make these establishments safe and compliant with the directives.”
A number of the recently reported COVID-19 cases have been traced back to an ongoing outbreak in Put-in-Bay, according to Gov. Mike DeWine.
The outbreak on the island has been continuing since June when the Ottawa County Health Department and Toledo-Lucas Health Department confirmed an outbreak of COVID-19 that occurred at Put-In-Bay between June 17 and 21.
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