News

CM Graham's Statement on Revocation of Club U Liquor License

For Immediate Release
June 29, 2005

Contact: Alan Heymann
(202) 727-8229

Councilmember Jim Graham (D-Ward One) issued the following statement this afternoon:

"I am pleased with the ABC Board decision that was announced today revoking the license of The Coach and Four, also known as Club U, located in the D.C. Government’s Reeves Center at 14th & U Streets, N.W.

"The Board has found that continuation of this license presents an imminent danger to the health and safety of the public. The Board was impacted, as was I, by Chief Ramsey’s determination that under 25 DC Code 827 there had been an increased correlation of crime within 1,000 feet of this business as a result of this license. Mayor Williams has also joined with us in calling for this action.

"As I have said before, this is not about any particular group or type of music. This is about a pattern of violence associated with an establishment that has been privileged to dispense alcohol. This privilege is awarded only to those who behave responsibly to protect the public safety and health.

"The tragic incident that justifies this act was the stabbing death of Mr. Terrence Brown within these premises in February 2005.

"As chair of the Committee on Consumer and Regulatory Affairs (with oversight over alcohol licensing), and as Councilmember for the ward in which this license was located, I appreciate this action."