47°
In an announcement on Monday, the state Department of Consumer Protection said it had reached a settlement with the owners for the bar to close permanently following an investigation into a large number of underage drinkers.
The bust took place April 19 when the Norwalk Police Special Services Division and agents from the Connecticut Liquor Control Commission conducted liquor compliance checks within the city, Norwalk police said.
According to police, when officers arrived, they found 103 underage people in the bar, including 93 that were Fairfield University students.
"The establishment’s permit was suspended on April 20 and will remain suspended through July 18, 2018, at which time its permit will be canceled," DCP said in a statement.
According to DCP, the owners have paid a fine of $20,000 and has agreed to reimburse the Norwalk Police Department for $3,912.74 for work during the raid.
They have also agreed to reimburse Fairfield University for the use of the private bus service and for university safety officers.
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank Chief Thomas Kulhawik and the men and women of the Norwalk Police Department for their continued efforts to provide a safe environment for their residents and visitors,” said Consumer Protection Commissioner Michelle H. Seagull, “Our collaboration with local police is essential to protecting public health and safety in our state, and I am proud of the work we do together.”
The bar opened in SoNo in May 2014 and has been a popular gathering spot for college students and residents alike.
Another Johnny Utah’s is located in Manhattan at Rockefeller Center.
Click here to follow Daily Voice Wilton and receive free news updates.
