Sports Bar Keeps Its Doors Open After Settlement Over Illegal Practices

Mecca Sports Bar, located at 2915 W. Mississippi Ave in Denver’s Athmar Park area, has agreed to stay open after a city investigation uncovered serious misconduct. The bar faces a one‑year probation period, during which any new violations could trigger a 30‑day shutdown and possibly the loss of its license. The settlement requires the business to pay a $5, 000 fine and mandates that all staff complete training with the Laboratory to Combat Human Trafficking. These steps aim to curb illegal behavior and protect patrons from exploitation. Investigators reported that women employed at the venue regularly offered sex for money to customers, both inside and outside the bar. They would overcharge clients and sometimes leave with them for “off‑premise bottle service, ” only to return later for payment from the manager. An undercover officer was approached by one of these employees, who admitted others were involved.

The agreement also prohibits any person—whether a customer or employee—from selling drinks or food at inflated prices in exchange for companionship while on the premises. This new rule is part of the bar’s license conditions and reflects the city’s effort to enforce fair business practices. The owner and legal counsel have not commented on the deal. City officials noted that most licensing disputes in Denver end with settlements rather than license revocations, which are reserved for the most severe or repeated violations. The goal is to bring businesses into compliance with the law while avoiding abrupt closures.

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