Illegal nightclub shuts down in Santa Cruz, owners and employees arrested

An unlicensed nightclub in Santa Cruz that allowed patrons to use and distribute drugs was shut down on Saturday following an investigation, according to the Santa Cruz Police Department.

“An illegal nightclub operation like this, is really a breeding ground for illegal activities,” said Joyce Blaschke with the Santa Cruz Police Department. “There were folks using drugs, they were selling illegal alcohol and there was live music.”

Over the past month, the police department said it received complaints about a club in the industrial Coral Street neighborhood that stayed open until 6 a.m. The investigation found as many as 200 people visiting the establishment a night.

“The building is not structured for that kind of operation, so it’s definitely a dangerous situation to operate a business,” said Blaschke.

The club also charged patrons an entrance fee and illegally sold alcohol. A .38 revolver stolen from Shasta County was also discovered during the police search.

The club owner and three employees have been arrested.

Robert Cardiasmenos, 62, is charged with conspiracy to sell alcohol without a license, failure to obtain worker’s compensation insurance, and possession of a stolen firearm.

Stephanie Ross, 52, Patrick Eze, 51, and Amber Hagle, 33, are charged with conspiracy to sell alcohol without a license.

Stacy Crisler, 36, is cited for possession of methamphetamine.