Raiding gay bars in 'progressive' Seattle [View all]

https://www.thestranger.com/queer/2024/02/01/79367907/liquor-and-cannabis-board-pauses-enforcement-of-lewd-conduct-regulations

Feb 1, 2024 at 6:11 pm
Liquor and Cannabis Board Pauses Enforcement of Lewd Conduct Regulations

Change Comes After Fierce Community Reponse

VIVIAN MCCALL

Well, that was fast.

After raiding four gay bars last week and finding nothing but a nipple and jockstraps, the Liquor and Cannabis Board has paused enforcement of its lewd conduct rules, according to a signed letter sent to state officials.

The Board also paused participation in Seattle’s Joint Enforcement Team, a coalition of police, fire, and other city departments, and will reopen rulemaking to amend or repeal the lewd conduct violation regulations.

The Board also said it won’t issue citations for anything they saw over the weekend—including a bartender’s exposed nipple at The Cuff Complex and jockstraps seen at The Seattle Eagle—and it will review its past practices and policies, including the use of photographs as evidence.

The Board wrote that it is working with the LGBTQ caucus and legislative committees to "try to find solutions through legislation that further our mutual efforts."

…more… cops with flashlights…photograph patrons… mayor says sorry…