Council Imposes Strict Rules on 3 Liquor Outlets

In an effort to curb what police complain is widespread public drunkenness and alcohol-fueled crime, the Los Angeles City Council on Tuesday imposed strict rules on three Pacoima liquor outlets, including a ban on selling cold beer and wine and on the sale of single cans or small bottles of alcoholic beverages.

The stores--Pacoima Food Market, Leon's Liquor and John's Liquor--must close by 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and at midnight on Fridays and Saturdays instead of selling until 2 a.m., as state law allows other liquor outlets and bars to do.

City Zoning Administrator Jon Perica said police and zoning officials, responding to complaints from nearby residents, found evidence of drunkenness and resulting crime stemming from liquor sales at the three outlets.