OLCC Inspectors Thought They Were Going To Be Asked To Be Part of the Show at Darcelle XV
Darcelle XV, Walter Cole, at his 80th Birthday Celebration at Melody Ballroom, Nov. 16, 2010
As soon as I heard about the "situation" that occurred at Darcelle XV between Darcelle (Walter Cole) and inspectors from the Oregon Liquor Control Commission and Portland Police I contacted Christie Scott, the Public Affairs Specialist for the OLCC.
Here is what I understand happened on the night of Thursday, August 11, at the Old Town nightclub located on Northwest Third Avenue. And to say that everyone involved were "surprised" about what happened is an understatement.
According to Scott, "minor decoy operations," in which underage police cadets try to buy alcohol at a bar in violation of Oregon state law, happens often throughout the metro area.
The OLCC was conducting a furnishing alcohol to minors sweep last night in downtown Portland.
What is important to note about what happened at Darcelle XV is that the bar was not targeted due to any previous violations or reports.
The OLCC chose Darcelle XV's for the operation at random by a computer program.
"It had nothing to do with being gay-owned or operated," says Scott about the joint operation between the OLCC and Portland Police. "Or that it was a cabaret that features female impersonators."
According to Scott when the minor entered the club there was no one at the door checking identification. At that time he purchased a beer. There was also no one at the door when OLCC inspectors entered the club.
Immediately upon entering the club the OLCC inspectors were treated differently than the other customers in the club and were almost immediately approached by Cole.
"They thought Darcelle was going to ask them to be part of the (show)," says Scott. Immediately the inspectors showed their badges and followed standard OLCC procedure.
At that time the inspectors were ordered to leave Darcelle XV.
The OLCC inspectors report that they were grabbed and shoved by Cole. The inspectors were very "surprised" and "confused" when Cole "attacked" them says Scott. One of the inspectors reports injuries to his upper arm.
Following the altercation the OLCC inspectors went outside to use their cell phones to call Portland Police and Cole returned to the stage to finish his show.
Portland police arrested Cole on harassment charges. Those charges were dropped as of Friday afternoon.
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Last Updated (Friday, 12 August 2011 14:40)
