California Frequently Asked Questions

What happens after the investigation?

After the investigation, the District Office evaluates the case and takes one of six different actions, depending on the evidence and facts of the case.

• No Further Action. This means there was insufficient evidence of a violation and ABC is dropping the case with no further action.
• Warning Letter or Admonishment. A warning letter may be sent to a licensee or a licensee may be called into the District Offfice for an interview when the circumstances surrounding a violation show that a warning letter or interview will achieve the desired effect of compliance and the filing of an accusation is not in the best interests of justice. With warnings, there must be sufficient evidence to indicate that a violation did occur. Anything less is an admonishment.
• Notice of Public Nuisance. This notice describes nuisance conditions observed at the premises and reminds the licensee of his duty to control his permises. ABC then monitors the licensed premises. If, after being notified by ABC, the licensee fails to correct public nuisance conditions at the licensed premises within a reasonable period of time, ABC may file an accusation.
• Incident File. A police report, including any call for service to the premises by law enforcement, which does not by itself warrant an accusation, is placed in the licensee's file and accumulated. If a sufficient number of these reports or calls for service accumulate, ABC may file an accusation alleging "permitting a disorderly house" and/or "creating a law enforcement problem" at a future date.
• Accusation. If sufficient evidence exists that a violation occurred, the District Office prepares an accusation. The accusation alleges specific violations of law, rule or regulation.