Alcohol Ruled Not A Problem At Barona Band of Mission Indians Casino

Residents and county officials who oppose gambling in their communities have always used crime and unruly behavior as a crutch for their argument, but a judge has sided with a casino in the latest battle in court.

Judge Rodolfo Echeverria took the side of the Barona Band of Mission Indians and is recommending that the tribe be allowed to continue to serve alcohol at their large casino resort.

Opposition tried to manipulate statistics to show that car accidents in the area and crime in the area was a direct relation to patrons drinking at the casino, but testimony from a traffic expert disputed their claims.

Further complicating things for the opposition is the fact that alcohol is only served in select locations in the casino resort, and not on the gaming floor, and the judge claimed that to be one of the reason's for his recommendation.

The judge's final decision will be reviewed by Steve Hardy, the director of the ABC, and a final decision will be made.

Whatever the final decision is, the battle for either side of the issue will not be over as Hardy's decision can be reviewed by an appeals board.



2007-10-11