Incident Overview

In a surprising turn of events, J.J.'s Pub in Campbell River has been slapped with a $1,000 fine after an employee's misstep resulted in the identification of liquor inspectors who were conducting a routine investigation at the establishment.

Details of the Incident

On the night of May 25, 2024, at around 11:37 PM, two liquor inspectors arrived at the pub to ensure compliance with local liquor laws. Upon presenting their identification, which clearly marked them as liquor inspectors, the employee stationed at the entrance insisted that they pay a cover charge of $15 to enter. When the inspectors explained that they were exempt from this charge due to their official duties, the situation escalated.

Escalation of Events

The employee, apparently flustered, attempted to block their entry while simultaneously shouting, “liquor inspectors!” This outburst not only drew attention to the inspectors but also caused patrons at the bar to turn and gawk at the situation. Disturbed by the sudden notoriety, the inspectors soon decided to leave the premises, feeling unsafe due to the unwanted attention.

Management's Defense

While the incident caused a stir, the manager of J.J.'s Pub has defended the employee, stating that they did not mean any harm and that loud music might have made the shouting seem more pronounced. The manager described the employee as a long-time staff member known for their kindness and denied the use of any profanity during the altercation.

Regulatory Response

However, the Liquor and Cannabis Regulation Branch (LCRB) emphasized the importance of strict adherence to regulations that prohibit drawing attention to inspectors during their investigations. The guidelines are designed primarily for the safety of inspectors and policing agents, stipulating that licensees must ensure inspectors can operate without undue disturbance from patrons.

Consequences for the Pub

In light of this incident, J.J.'s Pub was offered the choice of either a $1,000 fine or a one-day suspension of their liquor license. The pub opted to pay the monetary penalty, which could have been higher as the fines for such violations range from $1,000 to $3,000, with potential suspensions of one to three days.

Conclusion

This incident raises critical awareness about the importance of following liquor laws and protocols, not just for the safety of inspectors but also for maintaining the integrity and reputation of local establishments. As the pub navigates this recent setback, it remains to be seen what measures will be taken to prevent such occurrences in the future.

Stay Tuned

Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story!