Recher Theatre Owners Not Responsible For September Riot
TOWSON, Md. (WJZ) -- After a riot in September, the Recher Theatre in Towson was facing some stiff penalties and possibly the loss of its liquor license.
Monique Griego was there as its owners went before the Liquor Board Monday.
Just before the hearing started, Baltimore County leaders announced they'd reached an agreement with the owners, saying the theater was not responsible for what happened that night.
YouTube video shows the chaos outside the Recher Theatre on Sept. 22 after more than 2,000 people showed up for a frat party.
Police and K-9s tried to control the alcohol-fueled crowd but soon a series of fights broke out. Several officers were assaulted and one person was shot.
"I didn't expect anything like that to happen. Never want to have anything like that ever happen," said owner Brian Recher.
Recher was set to appear before the Baltimore County Liquor Board Monday to find out if he'd lose his liquor license. But instead, the county announced it had reached an agreement with the theater, which absolves it of any fault in what happened.
"This was an isolated incident that occurred in and around a business that has a longstanding relationship in and around the Towson community," said Adam Rosenblatt, Asst. County Attorney.
Under the deal, Recher faces no fines or penalties but agreed to several changes. They include not working with promoters who can sell tickets over the venue's capacity, ensuring contracts with performers state capacity and making sure events encourage pre-sale tickets.
"We can just do everything we can to make sure it doesn't happen again," said Recher.
The agreement called the melee unexpected and out of the theater's control.
Some community members agreed.
"I do feel they've been really good neighbors and members of the community and we're glad that there's no sanctions or penalties for them," said Paul Hartman, Towson resident.
The Recher Theatre also has to notify the county of its weekly schedule and electronically monitor and review ticket sales.
Monday, the Liquor Board also approved a building expansion the Recher had asked for.
