Selectmen Vote To Suspend American Legion's Liquor License

STOUGHTON, MA — The American Legion will not be able to serve alcohol for a few days after a determination by the selectmen that they violated their liquor license for the third time.

Last week, the board voted to suspend the American Legion’s liquor license for seven days, with five days to be served July 12-16. The board also voted to send a warning that two days are being held in advance and another violation could result in the board revoking their right to serve alcohol.

On April 27 at 1:50 a.m., officers on patrol near Park Street noticed vehicles in the parking lot of the American Legion. Aware that they have had past violations for serving late, the officer went to the establishment and found one person behind the bar and another with a beer. When asked why the beer was there, the bartender said she must have forgotten to throw it away while the person sitting at the bar said he didn’t touch the drink for an hour, according to a police report read to the selectmen. Police say the beer appeared to be new.

Police records show that the violation is the American Legion’s third and does not include a separate gaming violation from 2007.

No representatives from the American Legion were at the open hearing to contest the violation, despite efforts by the town to contact them by mail.

During the meeting, board members appeared to be leaning towards license revocation in the event of another violation.

“If it happens again, it’s four strikes and you’re out. Veterans groups are veterans group but they’re still serving alcohol and have to follow the rules,” Selectmen Chairman Robert Cohn said.

The board also voted to hold a hearing on the suitability of the manager when the license is up for renewal.

Image: File Photo