April 8, 2010 --One individual has been arrested and further arrests are anticipated following an undercover drug investigation by the Santa Monica Police Department (SMPD) and the California Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) at the Joker Bar, which is located at 2827 Pico Blvd.

“During the investigation, undercover investigators were able to make purchases of illegal drugs from the bar employees and patrons on several different occasions,” a press release from the SMPD stated.

The investigation was initiated, the SMPD says, due to “heightened concern about this location” based on observations from police officers and complaints from local residents. The SMPD says ABC investigators went undercover to the bar several times during the past two months to gain enough information for the arrest.

The ABC plans to file an accusation against the Joker. The penalty could range from a fine to a revocation of the license.
Officials from The Joker could not be reached for comment.