We just spoke with Jesse Danoff, the attorney representing 169 Bar, which was sued by the NYPD over underage drinking allegations. He tells us that the popular dive at 169 East Broadway will be staying open, in spite of threats from the city to push for its closure. In an agreement worked out in court today, owner Charles Hanson agreed to pay a few thousand dollars in fines. He also agreed to adhere to some safeguards (some of which were already in place) — use of electronic scanners, security cameras, etc.
According to the NYPD, two underage auxiliary officers got past a doorman on two separate evenings last November. They were then served beers. Previously, Danoff had suggested that one of the undercover officers used a fake ID. A police department source acknowledged that the cops aren’t allowed to utilize fake identification during undercover operations of this type. But the source added that the officers taking part in the 169 Bar sting were using legitimate ID’s.
Danoff said he believes the bar attracted the 7th Precinct’s attention based on numerous 311 calls from a single local resident. 169 Bar did not admit any guilt or admit that either instance of underage drinking occurred in the establishment.
