Peekskill police, along with investigators from the New York State Liquor Authority, inspected ten different establishments to ensure compliance with State Liquor Laws. They issued summons to four establishments for violating the state liquor laws, and netted two arrests while performing the inspections on May 13. Also assisting in the operation were officers from New York State Parole, and inspectors from the City of Peekskill Building.
One arrest was made of Joseaphus Lovett, 33, of Peekskill, who was charged with disorderly conduct after threatening officers who were conducting the inspections. He was released after sobering up and is due to appear in Peekskill City Court on May 23 at 11 a.m.
The following locations were found with violations and issued summons for the offenses (from the Peekskill Police Department):
-Playoff’s Tavern 620 Washington St. summonsed for not posting proper alcohol warning signage
-Sue’s Sunset House 137 North Water St. summonsed for having contaminated liquor (Fruit Flies) and for not posting proper alcohol warning signage
-La Herradura 118 N. Division St. summonsed for having contaminated Liquor (Fruit Flies)
-Mi Rancho Café 306 Highland Ave summonsed for serving a visibly intoxicated individual. In addition, the bar was shut down after the building inspector noticed the buildings electrical wiring was not properly connected. Con Edison was notified and deemed it to be a hazard and therefore shut off the electricity.
The cited taverns are not only facing criminal charges but are additionally subjected to stiff penalties from the State Liquor Authority who will be holding hearings for the offenses. These penalties range from fines for minor and first time offenders, to the suspension and/or revocation of the establishments liquor license for habitual offenders.
In addition to the Liquor Law offenses, New York State Parole officers observed a parolee out past curfew and intoxicated both violations of the terms of his parole. They will be following up with an investigation which could lead to the individual being returned to State Prison.
Establishments that are licensed to sell alcohol can expect these investigations to continue in an effort to ensure customers who choose to enjoy alcohol responsibly can do so in a safe and legitimate environment. In addition to tavern inspections, police officers will continue to run underage alcohol compliance checks, and notify the SLA of any incidents involving violence or disorderly behavior that can be associated with a licensed establishment.
