Stores, Bars Are Being Charged for Serving Intoxicated Patrons

When Ohio’s law enforcement officers and troopers investigate alcohol-related crashes and incidents, they are also now looking at the source of the alcohol.

Trace-back investigations have let to 16 arrests or citations so far this year, the Patrol said.

Agents with the Ohio Investigative Unit trace the source of alcohol, with the intent of identifying the seller, server or provider to see if the server or provider acted within Ohio’s liquor laws.

OIU agents determine if the individual was old enough to consume or possess alcohol and if the person was intoxicated when he or she was served. 

“We investigate to hold bars, restaurants and convenient stores accountable for their sales,” said Agent-in-Charge Eric Wolf. “The sooner our agents get involved with these cases, the more successful we are in finding the source of the alcohol.” 

Agents have two courses of action to take if laws are found to be broken. Criminal charges can be filed against individuals, and administrative charges can be filed against the liquor permit.

Administrative charges are presented to the Ohio Liquor Control Commission for their consideration. Administrative penalties include fines, suspensions or liquor permit revocation.