As “retired” Cowboys defensive lineman Josh Brent awaits trial on charges of intoxication manslaughter, a bar that served Brent alcohol the night that culminated in the death of teammate Jerry Brown faces scrutiny from the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission.
According to WFAA.com, the Commission said Friday that it has found “sufficient evidence” to believe that Beamers Private Club in Dallas was selling alcohol to intoxicated persons, and that that the club encouraged “excessive” drinking.
The Commission said that investigators have concluded Beamers was the last place Brent stopped before the fatal crash.
No action will be pursued against Beamers by the Commission until Brent’s trial has ended. Beamers faces a fine or suspension/revocation of its license to sell alcohol.
Bars and restaurants routinely confront the dilemma of when to cut off their customers. Apart from facing challenges to their ability to sell alcoholic beverages (and the reality that it’s irresponsible to unleash drunks onto the public roadways), establishments that serve intoxicated customers risk significant civil liability.