Jay’s Bar and Grill Faces Potential Liquor License Suspension Amid Underage Drinking Violations

COLUMBIA — Jay’s Bar and Grill Facing Liquor License Suspension

In a development that could leave patrons of Jay’s Bar and Grill in The Vista searching for their next drink spot, the establishment is currently awaiting a court ruling regarding a potential suspension of its liquor license. This follows the bar’s troubling track record, with dozens of reported alcohol-related violations since it opened its doors in January 2023.

As of now, the bar is looking at a possible 45-day suspension on their liquor license and a $1,500 fine imposed by the South Carolina Department of Revenue. The decision will be made by a judge, with a ruling expected in the coming months.

What’s Behind the Trouble?

During a recent South Carolina Administrative Court hearing, attorneys representing both sides presented their arguments. The state outlined the numerous violations, which primarily involve underage drinking and a reluctance to cooperate with law enforcement.

“This is a troubled location,” stated Dana Krajak, the attorney for the Department of Revenue. She indicated that the bar has operated more as an “underage bar” than anything else. Testimonies revealed that staff have not only been unwilling to collaborate with law enforcement but have also reportedly “locked them out.”

Details of the Violations

Since its inception, Jay’s Bar and Grill has experienced a number of violations, with scores of citations issued for selling alcohol to individuals under 21. A particular incident that piqued concern occurred on December 13, 2023, when an undercover operation revealed that a 19-year-old informant was able to enter the establishment without her ID being adequately checked. Not only was she let in, but she was also able to purchase a beer without scrutiny. This incident was indicative of a pattern of behavior that local law enforcement had noticed.

According to reports, around 80 citations for underage possession of alcohol or fake IDs had been issued in just ten months since opening. This has raised serious concerns about the bar’s commitment to safety and compliance.

Bar Management Responds

In defense, the attorney for Jay’s, John Alphin, acknowledged the past mistakes but assured the court that the bar has since made significant changes to improve its operations. He emphasized that after the December incident, management took the necessary steps to prevent future violations, which included acquiring better ID scanners, enhancing training for staff, and implementing wristband systems for customers over the age of 21.

Current General Manager Michael Hyland shared that employees involved in the problematic incidents have already been let go, as part of the bar’s commitment to change. He noted that they have not faced any new violations since implementing these measures in March 2024, despite having about 40 individuals ticketed for underage drinking during that timeframe.

The Bigger Picture

Concerns linger with law enforcement continuing to caution that the bar may not have done enough to prevent underage drinking. Michael Crowley, with the Columbia Police Department, highlighted that this venue tends to draw a largely college crowd and sometimes high school students, making it crucial for management to enforce rules strictly.

Overall, the Department of Revenue is advocating for a more significant penalty, aligning the potential suspension with the bar’s checkered past. The court has yet to make a ruling, but as time progresses, the future of Jay’s Bar and Grill could see some drastic changes.

Looking Ahead

As the bar waits for the court’s decision, owner Jay Kalin has reportedly taken a step back to allow management more control over operations. Whether these changes will be enough to avoid a suspension and prove the bar’s commitment to safety remains to be seen, especially with the liquor license up for renewal on November 12.

Time will tell if the beloved watering hole can turn things around and regain the trust of both local law enforcement and the community. Until then, patrons might want to keep an eye out for any updates regarding the bar’s liquor license status.