Unlicensed Indy Club Shut Down for Operating Illegally

Police destroyed 3,000 containers of alcohol at "The Playhouse" on the northeast side of Indianapolis.

A well-stocked bar with numerous bottles, glasses, and lighting fixtures displayed on wooden shelves. — Source: IMPD

INDIANAPOLIS — Police shut down an unlicensed club on the northeast side of Indianapolis after discovering evidence of illegal operation.

Detectives with the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department’s Nuisance Abatement Unit and Indiana State Excise Police had been monitoring “The Playhouse” on Arlington Avenue for at least a few weeks. On Monday, police served a search warrant at the club after learning that it was operating without the required permits.

IMPD said officers ended up destroying nearly 3,000 containers of alcohol from the establishment. The Marion County Health Department Food Division also issued a closure notice for the club.

“IMPD will continue to work closely with our city partners to identify and address nuisance properties,” the department said in a statement. “By ensuring all establishments operate responsibly and in compliance with regulations, we help create a safer environment for everyone and improve the quality of life in our neighborhoods.”

Last month, the Marion County Local Alcohol Board denied a permit for the club, and the Indiana Alcohol Commission upheld the decision. The owner had also not disclosed their exact involvement in the business.

Police were familiar with the owner. IMPD said he previously ran an unlicensed, after-hours bar across the street.