Title: Criminal Enterprise Uncovered in Cleveland’s Bar Scene
CLEVELAND, Ohio – State liquor agents have exposed a criminal operation that allegedly managed a network of seven bars across four suburbs in Cleveland, amassing nearly $4 million in illegal proceeds since 2019. The Ohio Investigative Unit (OIU) announced a 45-count indictment filed by Cuyahoga County prosecutors, resulting in charges against nine individuals for money laundering, conspiracy, and other offenses.
The indicted group is accused of utilizing straw purchases—where a legally eligible individual buys property on behalf of someone barred from ownership—to acquire the establishments. Prominent among the locations involved are Boozerz and The Bench Lounge in Euclid; Aura-Iconic and Aries Restaurant & Lounge in Garfield Heights; Night Capz and The Score in Cleveland Heights; and Bar Mayfield in South Euclid.
Investigators allege that the defendants submitted fraudulent liquor license applications, omitting names that would attract scrutiny. These seven bars not only generated illicit income but also created significant public nuisances, prompting local law enforcement’s intervention.
In October, agents executed search warrants at the bars, seizing cash, firearms, and business records. The indictment outlines 76 administrative violations, and while the bars remain operational during the investigation, they face potential closure by the Ohio Liquor Control Commission pending the allegations.
Among those charged are Sharita Roberts (42), Randy Pittman (53), Donald King Jr. (42), and others, with several facing serious felony charges. Two additional individuals, Tremaine Golston (35) and Jazmyn Barrow-Stover (40), are implicated for tampering with records.
As the investigation unfolds, the community is left waiting for the legal proceedings to clarify the future of these establishments.
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Photo credit www.cleveland.com
