Violent Incidents Involving Teens Leads to Suspension
Albany, NY – The New York State Liquor Authority (SLA) summarily suspended the license of the Djumbala of New York INC, doing business as Djumbala at 1370 Ralph Avenue in New York. The suspension was ordered by the Members of the State Liquor Authority Commissioners Jeanique Greene and Noreen Healey at a meeting of the Full Board on Wednesday, March 17, 2010.
The decision to suspend the license was based on a string of violent incidents reported to the SLA by the New York Police Department (NYPD), many of which occurred during “teen nights.” On January 18, 2010, police reported an incident in which a 16 year old male sustained a gunshot wound through the leg while a large crowd gathered in front of the premises, requiring multiple police units to respond to the disturbance. More recently, on February 27, 2010, a large melee occurred directly across the street from Djumbala, after gunshots were fired inside the club, leading the brawling teenagers to spill out of the club into the street. On another occasion in January 2009, NYPD officers responded to an altercation inside the club where four patrons were stabbed.
“Our fear is if this club isn’t closed, someone is going to get killed,” said SLA CEO Trina Mead. “I commend the Board for taking this emergency action today to protect the public safety.”
Djumbala faces 34 separate Alcoholic Beverage Control Law violations, including recent incidents of shootings, stabbings and assaults, as well as underage sales, failure to supervise, and numerous noise violations. Based on the history of escalating violence at the premises, the Members of the SLA voted for an emergency suspension of the license. Effective immediately, no alcohol can be served or consumed on the premises.
The SLA’s decision to summarily suspend a license is not a final determination on the merits of the case. The licensee is entitled to an expedited hearing before an administrative law judge to address the alleged violation(s) that led to the suspension. An order of summary suspension remains in effect until such time as it is modified by the State Liquor Authority or reviewing court.
The State Liquor Authority regulates and controls the manufacture, sale and distribution of alcoholic beverages within the state. The Authority works with local law enforcement agencies and localities across the state to ensure compliance with the Alcoholic Beverage Control Law. In addition, the Authority issues and renews licenses and permits to manufacturers, distributors, wholesalers and retailers of alcoholic beverages.