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The City of Cincinnati and the state of Ohio filed a nuisance lawsuit against In Between Tavern, seeking a court order to shut down the downtown bar after multiple violent incidents near the establishment, including a fatal party bus shooting on Valentine’s Day and a separate October drive‑by shooting. Officials also cited alleged robberies, liquor violations, and parking problems. Owner Darrien Wilkins disputes the allegations, saying the shootings had nothing to do with his business.
In Between Tavern has become a focus of legal action after the city and state filed a lawsuit.
The City of Cincinnati and the state of Ohio filed the In Between Tavern lawsuit in the Hamilton County Common Pleas Court on Thursday.
The action seeks a court order to close the bar at Third and Sycamore streets downtown. It cites a pattern of violence and violations linked to the property.
City officials say the bar has been at the center of at least two fatal shooting incidents in the past four months, drawing heightened scrutiny from law enforcement and municipal leaders.
In Between Tavern shooting incidents
City records show the lawsuit lists two deadly events near the In Between Tavern. First, the most recent occurred on Valentine’s Day. On that date, a gunman opened fire on a party bus near the tavern downtown, killing one person and injuring another, according to police reports.
Subsequently, police arrested 28‑year‑old De’Angelo Robinson, charging him with murder and felonious assault in connection with the incident. In court, Robinson’s attorney has said he acted in self‑defense. Nevertheless, officials still describe the shooting as a violent event tied to the area.
In addition, the lawsuit also cites a deadly October shooting outside the tavern. In that case, police found a man inside his car after a drive‑by shortly after a Cincinnati Bengals home game.
Officials argue these incidents reflect a pattern of violence. They say this pattern has made the vicinity around the bar a public safety concern.
City alleges public nuisance and other violations
Beyond the shootings, the lawsuit claims that the In Between Tavern has been connected to other illegal activities and civil violations. According to officials:
- A person was reportedly trampled and robbed outside the bar by people identified as patrons.
- The city has issued multiple civil citations for litter and loud music.
- Complaints include parking issues, alleged underage service and employees stealing alcohol.
Together, city leaders argue this pattern of activity makes the bar a public nuisance under local law.
Owner disputes allegations
The lawsuit names bar owner Darrien Wilkins and the property owners of the In Between Tavern. Officials say the complaint was filed based on evidence gathered over months of incidents.
In statements to WLWT 5, Wilkins said he was unaware of the lawsuit until contacted by reporters and expressed frustration with the claims. He maintains the shootings and other violence outside the bar were not caused by operations inside his business. Additionally, Wilkins told reporters he plans to consult legal counsel.
Legal context and precedent in Cincinnati
This is not the first time Cincinnati has used nuisance lawsuits to target bars with safety and violation issues. In past years, the city pursued legal action to shut down or penalize other downtown establishments that struggled with violence or civil infractions. For example, Rusconi’s Bar & Kitchen and Galla Park Gastro have faced closures or litigation following safety concerns.
Nuisance lawsuits aim to help cities hold businesses accountable when regular enforcement or licensing hasn’t resolved ongoing problems. Legal experts note these suits can push owners to improve compliance or, in some cases, close completely when conditions persist.
Calls for community safety and future steps
City officials intend the lawsuit to reduce violence and protect downtown visitors, workers, and residents. By asking a court to label the tavern a public nuisance and order its closure, authorities aim to deter further incidents linked to the location.
Next, the case moves to court proceedings in Hamilton County. Municipal lawyers will present evidence, and the owner’s defense team will respond. Eventually, a judge will decide whether the bar will remain open or close under the nuisance claim.
Local stakeholders, including business owners and neighborhood groups, are watching closely as Cincinnati continues efforts to address violent incidents in entertainment districts.
FAQs
Why is In Between Tavern facing a lawsuit?
The City of Cincinnati and the state of Ohio filed a nuisance lawsuit to close In Between Tavern. Officials cite multiple violent incidents, including fatal shootings near the bar, and alleged civil violations like litter, parking problems, and underage service.
What violent incidents occurred near the bar?
The lawsuit highlights two major events: a fatal party bus shooting on Valentine’s Day and an October drive‑by shooting outside the tavern. Both incidents resulted in deaths and injuries, raising public safety concerns downtown.
Who owns In Between Tavern?
The tavern is owned by Darrien Wilkins. He disputes the allegations, saying the shootings and violence outside were not caused by the bar’s operations.
What other violations are cited in the lawsuit?
The city lists alleged robberies outside the bar, noise complaints, employees stealing alcohol, and parking problems. These violations support the claim that the establishment is a public nuisance.
What could happen next in the legal process?
The lawsuit will be heard in Hamilton County Court, where officials will present evidence and the owner can defend the business. A judge will decide whether the tavern should remain open or be ordered closed to prevent future incidents.
