By Glenn Erby
Lead Writer
The Dallas Morning News is reporting that Privae Nightclub is facing legal trouble after a state investigation found problems with its alcohol service the night Dallas Cowboys defensive tackle Josh Brent killed his teammate, linebacker Jerry Brown, after Brent crashed his car on a Dallas highway.
Brent was later charged with DUI and intoxication manslaughter.
The Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission said Friday that it has found “sufficient evidence” that Privae sold alcohol to “an intoxicated person” on the night in question, which is against the law.
“TABC investigators found sufficient evidence against Beamers Private Club… to allege selling alcoholic beverages to an intoxicated person as well as conducting practices that promote excessive consumption by patrons,” TABC said in a statement.
TABC can fine, suspend or cancel an alcohol permit if it determines that an employee sold or served an alcoholic beverage to an intoxicated person.
The permit remains active while the criminal case is pending, TABC spokeswoman Carolyn Beck said. She said no other details will be released in the meantime.
Joe Beamer, the human resources manager for Privae, the VIP club inside Beamers, released a written statement Friday.
“The safety of our guests and employees is our No. 1 priority. Our establishment promotes responsible drinking. Every staff member who sells and serves alcoholic beverages to our guests has been certified by the Texas Alcoholic and Beverage Commission and has undergone additional training through our in-house policies and procedures. We sell and serve responsibly.”
