Boston Licensing Board Tackles Multiple Allegations of Over-Service and Assaults

The Boston Licensing Board meeting on February 11, 2025, was highlighted by discussions on several incidents involving potential violations of Massachusetts General Laws at licensed establishments. The board examined serious allegations of over-service leading to a patron collapsing at Game On Sports Cafe, an alleged attempted robbery near Lolita Cocina and Tequila Bar, and a shooting incident linked to a nightclub on Warrington Street.

0:15A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the case concerning Game On Sports Cafe, where an alleged over-service incident raised questions about the establishment’s compliance with responsible service practices. The incident involved a patron, Lorie Stra, who reportedly consumed multiple alcoholic beverages in a short period before collapsing. Detective Norman Texiera from the Boston Police Department presented the police report, which described how Stra was found inebriated and unresponsive, necessitating emergency medical attention. The establishment’s attorney, Dennis Quilty, alongside staff members, defended the actions of the bar team, asserting that they followed proper protocols by calling 911 and assisting Stra until help arrived. Security footage showed the woman becoming increasingly intoxicated throughout the night, engaging in conversation with an unknown male before collapsing.

17:17The board scrutinized the actions of a part-time employee named James, who was seen interacting with Stra despite not being on duty. This interaction raised questions about whether he was serving drinks illegally. Game On’s management, including manager Anthony O’Leary, faced tough questions about the clarity of their internal protocols and the specifics of the footage. The board deliberated whether the establishment had adequately adhered to the legal responsibilities of serving alcohol, emphasizing the need for clear documentation and strict adherence to safety protocols.

49:21Another notable discussion focused on an incident at Lolita Cocina and Tequila Bar, where an alleged assault occurred outside the premises. William Burke represented Lolita, while Lieutenant Detective Troy read from a police report detailing the events. Burke maintained that video evidence showed no confrontation inside the establishment. The board was keen to review the video footage to ascertain the events leading up to the incident.

Similarly, TD Garden was in the spotlight due to allegations of indecent assault and battery on September 4, 2024. The incident involved two underage female victims who claimed that a suspect engaged in inappropriate behavior during a concert. Despite the serious nature of the allegations, the lack of physical evidence and the suspect’s denial led to no charges being filed. Attorney Kristen Scanlan, representing TD Garden, highlighted the role of security in alerting the police, although inconsistencies in the victims’ accounts complicated the investigation.

1:22:20The meeting also covered an incident involving firearms and an altercation at a venue on Warrington Street. Officer Edel Weiss testified about a shooting in a nearby parking garage involving an individual named Olas. Witnesses reported that Olas brandished a firearm and fired at two males following a verbal confrontation. The incident raised concerns about the nightclub’s security measures and video surveillance practices. The board emphasized the critical importance of preserving video evidence in serious incidents and scrutinized the club’s dispersal and security protocols.

Note: This meeting summary was generated by AI, which can occasionally misspell names, misattribute actions, and state inaccuracies. This summary is intended to be a starting point and you should review the meeting record linked above before acting on anything you read. If we got something wrong, let us know. We’re working every day to improve our process in pursuit of universal local government transparency.

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