A focus of the meeting was on an incident at the Scorpion Bar and Restaurant at the Grand where a patron allegedly brandished a firearm. The Boston Police Department’s detailed report described the events leading to the arrest of the suspect, who falsely claimed to be a police officer. Representatives from the Scorpion Bar detailed measures taken in response, including a management change and security upgrades. The board inquired about the accuracy of reports and employee communication, noting that the manager of record had not received a hearing notice.

In another serious incident, Royale nightclub faced scrutiny over an assault and battery on a patron and failure to call 911. The victim, Joseph Nunes, reported an altercation with nightclub staff, resulting in physical injuries and the loss of his chains. Debate ensued concerning the location of the incident and the reliability of security footage, which the nightclub manager claimed contradicted the police report. The board requested additional documentation, including the floor plan of the upgraded video system and a de-escalation plan.

Additionally, the board investigated an incident at Grove Hall Convenience Market, where an altercation between patrons and overcrowding were reported. Approximately 70 individuals were observed, far exceeding the allowed capacity of 16. The licensee’s attorney stated that the manager did not witness any altercations and that they had hired additional staff to ensure compliance.

The board also addressed an assault and battery case at a West Roxbury bar, where an intoxicated patron struggled with the bartender after being asked to leave. A separate overdose incident at a bar in Rosendale involved two individuals found suffering from an overdose after snorting drugs in the bathroom. The bar manager, who stated that the individuals were off-duty at the time, promised new policies to prevent future occurrences.

The most emotionally charged testimony came from Rachel Fontaine, who alleged that her 19-year-old daughter was served alcohol at Fogo de Chão on Christmas night, leading to the daughter passing out. Fontaine provided a video and receipt as evidence. The police issued a license premise inspection notice to the restaurant for serving an intoxicated underage patron. During the hearing, the managers of the restaurant refuted the claims, stating that the daughter was not served alcohol by them and was able to leave the restaurant unaided.

The meeting further discussed an indecent assault and battery at the Scorpion Bar, which upon review of surveillance footage, was found unsubstantiated by the board. The alleged victim initially declined to press charges and later changed her decision, but the case was closed with no charges filed against the suspect.

Throughout the proceedings, the reliability of video surveillance and cooperation with law enforcement were recurrent topics. The board showed concern over employee protocols during incidents and requested documentation, such as employee handbooks, to ensure awareness of legal obligations.