NEWPORT, Vt. -
A pub in Newport is being forced to close its doors for alleged violence, rape and overly intoxicated patrons.
The city's police chief says too many incidents have been reported since Griff's Pub opened six months ago.
Griff's Pub, a popular establishment that sits on the main drag in Newport has been a place locals hang out, until recently.
On Monday, the pub's owners decided to shut it down after allegations of a rape. Police say it was all recorded on a cell phone.
"It doesn't matter if it happens in the restroom or in the bar, they have to have control over the situation," Police Chief J. Paul Duquette said.
Police say an off the clock employee raped a patron in the restroom; while another employee, who was also off the clock, filmed the act.
Newport Police Chief J. Paul Duquette says the accused man is facing criminal charges.
"I look out for the safety of the city and if we have a spot that's causing problems, we try to address it," the Chief added.
This is just the latest case involving the pub.
Several fights and DUI's involved patrons leaving the business. According to Duquette, the lack of supervision is to blame.
"I was getting considerable amount of calls about over-serving, intoxicated patrons," Duquette said.
That's why he recommended to the City Council not to renew the pub's liquor license, which was up for renewal just a few days ago.
The director of the State Liquor Board, Bill Goggins told FOX44 reporter Jenny Day on the phone Friday morning that the City Council voted not to renew the pubs liquor license until after a hearing with the state board on May 11th, but after speaking with the pub owners, they say they don't have any plans to re-open business in Newport.
"We just couldn't financially be shut down for that many weeks," Pub Owner, Nancy Griffith said.
The Griffith's don't condone what happened, but say they are being unfairly shut down.
"Emotionally, we need to move on as a family and let go of our frustrations," Griffith added.
