Crime & Safety

Four Arrested, Five Sought in Illegal Drug Sale Operation at Lakewood Restaurant/Bar

The Hideaway Restaurant/Bar in Lakewood could have its liquor license revoked following an undercover operation that revealed illegal drug sales taking place inside the establishment.

Four people were arrested and five additional suspects were sought today after investigators from the state Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control conducted an undercover operation at a bar in nearby Lakewood.

ABC investigators discovered illegal drug activity at The Hideaway, a restaurant/bar at 5523 South St. in Lakewood, prompting a four-month investigation during which they were able to purchase marijuana, heroin, Vicodin and Xanax.

Purchases were made from seven different individuals and it is believed each was done with the knowledge, and in some instances direct aiding and abetting, by various bartenders and/or employees of the bar, according to the agency.

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During the last undercover operation at The Hideaway on Dec. 13, the investigators purchased marijuana from a patron and as a result, a felony arrest for sales of marijuana was made.

Arrest warrants were also served on three other suspects.

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A search warrant was also served at a local residence, resulting in a seizure of about one pound of marijuana, several different types of prescription pills, and paraphernalia directly related to the sale of drugs.

In addition to the criminal charges against the suspects, ABC expects to file an accusation against the licensee. This could lead to a revocation of the license.

- City News Service


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