SAINT PAUL, Minn — Administrative Law Judge James E. LaFave has issued a ruling that paves the way for the St. Paul city council to shutter the controversial B.P. gas station located on University and Hamline Avenues.
In November, a three-day hearing was held in which city licensing department laid out evidence of ordinances broken by the business.
LaFave writes that "...severe aggravating circumstances exist to revoke the licenses held by Midway Amoco."
Police body camera video played at the November hearing shows the clerk behind the counter selling suspected "crack pipe kits."
Cell phone videos show fights happening in the parking lot and at the gas pumps.
Last summer, a man was shot to death in his car while parked at the pumps.
"The multiple, egregious lawless acts that occurred at Midway Amoco over the summer months of 2019 were atypical and deeply disturbing. Licensee was aware of the situation but failed to take adequate steps, such as hiring more staff or security, or closing shop during the early morning hours, to control the crowds," Judge LaFave wrote in his 22 page ruling. "Licensee knew for months of the escalating violence and drug use occurring on its licensed premises, yet it took no action until it faced the likelihood of having its licenses revoked.
The judge's decision is not final. The city council has the final call after each side has an opportunity to present oral or written arguments.
