Hackney police investigate alleged Yucatan sexual assault

The licence holder of a Stoke Newington bar is barred from the premises until police complete an investigation into an alleged serious sexual assault which happened there.

The crime – which police say would merit a mandatory life sentence – allegedly took place in the Yucatan, Stoke Newington Road, in the morning of November 13.

On November 19 Hackney Council’s licensing sub-committee made an emergency decision, at the behest of the police, to exclude the premises licence holder Paul Keyes from the venue while the investigation is carried out.

The bar had already been subject to a review hearing in March after police raised concerns that alcohol had been served to underage drinkers twice within three months.

At the time, licensing officer Sgt Guy Hicks said in a report: “The venue has a chequered history and has been reviewed as well as being subject to a closure order for underage sales.

“A standard review is not considered appropriate due to the length of time between the application and the review being heard.

“It is imperative steps are taken as soon as possible to deal with the venue and the alleged offender to prevent the commission of further offences inside the premises.”

Mike Smith, senior licensing officer, wrote to Mr Keyes saying: “The sub-committee was persuaded by the police’s contention that the agreed additional condition is necessary to prevent the real risk of serious crime and or disorder recurring at the premises.”

A statement on the council’s website reads: “The sub-committee, having heard from the licensee, his representative and the police, is satisfied that this condition is necessary and appropriate to ensure that the licensing objectives are not undermined.

The decision was vindicated at a full hearing last Thursday at the town hall.

The Gazette has not been able to contact Yucatan or Mr Keyes for a statement.