WEAR-TV looks deeper into off-limit businesses

WEAR-TV reporter Melanie Levi talked with the Pensacola Police and the business owners about NAS Pensacola Commanding Officer Chandra Newman’s email to Pensacola Mayor D.C. Reeves regarding the decision to place two local establishments off-limits to service members.

Background

NAS Pensacola’s Armed Forces Disciplinary Control Board banned service members from Wild Greg’s Saloon and Pharaoh 2 convenience store due to  “unsafe and crime-conducive conditions, adversely impacting the good order and discipline, health, morale, safety and welfare of Service members.” Captain Chandra Newman issued administrative warnings citing repeated violations at both establishments. NASP OFF-LIMITS PAGE 13.

  • Wild Greg’s faces allegations of underage alcohol sales, cocaine distribution, fake ID acceptance, and inappropriate sexual conduct in bathrooms. Pharaoh 2 is accused of selling alcohol to minors and employees distributing illicit drugs to service members.

The establishments received previous warnings in January, with Wild Greg’s ownership meeting officials in April. Captain Newman also warned Mojo’s on Pace Boulevard about huffing gas sales but did not place it off-limits.

  • The bans are temporary, with quarterly reviews planned until both businesses meet Navy standards. Newman emphasized that the Navy wants to help businesses support responsible service member behavior.

WEAR-TV Interviews

Pensacola Police spokesperson Mike Wood told Levin that Wild Greg’s isn’t better or worse than other downtown establishments. “I can’t say that Wild Greg’s is any different than any other bar downtown as far as calls for service with the Pensacola Police Department.”

  • Pharoah 2’s owner refused to go on camera, but was adamant that his employees ID every customer and have never sold to anyone under 21.

Mojo’s Famous Philly, Wings & More owner Mahdi Muzahim said, “If they’re wearing military clothes, we’re not gonna sell it.”

See segment.

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Author: Rick Outzen

Rick Outzen is the publisher/owner of Pensacola Inweekly. He has been profiled in The New York Times and featured in several True Crime documentaries. Rick also is the author of the award-winning Walker Holmes thrillers. His latest nonfiction book is “Right Idea, Right Time: The Fight for Pensacola’s Maritime Park.”