A popular bar in Etobicoke may lose its liquor license after being accused of buying stolen alcohol, according to the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario.
The commission’s investigation revealed that the licensee and manager of Southside Johnny’s Bar and Grill located at 3653 Lake Shore Boulevard West were allegedly involved in purchasing stolen liquor for both the bar and personal use. The AGCO stated that this action goes against the Liquor Licence and Control Act, which requires license holders to operate with integrity and honesty.
The stolen alcohol, believed to be taken from a nearby LCBO store, was reportedly stored on the bar’s premises. To fit the bar’s dispensing system, larger bottles were sometimes transferred into smaller ones.
Dr. Karin Schnarr, Registrar and CEO of the AGCO, emphasized the seriousness of buying stolen liquor, highlighting how it not only breaks the law but also jeopardizes public safety and introduces illegal products into the regulated alcohol market.
The AGCO oversaw the investigation in collaboration with law enforcement partners and the Liquor Control Board of Ontario (LCBO).
Southside Johnny’s has the opportunity to appeal the proposed license revocation within 15 days to the License Appeal Tribunal.