Railroad Tavern Probe: The Heat Is On

Paul Scheuring Reporting

Liquor Enforcement Chief Accused Of Improper Comments

Concord, NH - What began with a citation of the Railroad Tavern in Keene for serving an inebriated custom in December, has escalated into a war of words, a state Attorney General's investigation of possible undue political influence, the suspension of the head of the New Hampshire State Liquor Commission, and now some verbal shots at the head of Liquor Enforcement.

Attorney General Michael Delaney and at least 2 members of the New Hampshire Executive Council criticized Enforcement Chief Eddie Edwards, before this week's Council meeting. At issue are multiple interviews with media by Edwards, asserting that he believes political figures brought undue pressure on the enforcement oficers on the case, and on himself. Most prominently mentioned for such alleged interference is the 4th-ranking Democrat in the state House, Rep. Daniel Eaton of Stoddard. He was one of the people who then-Railroad Tavern owner Randy Filiault called when the enforcement people showed up after the alleged violation. Filiault insists the alleged over-service never happened, and that video surveillance tapes prove it. Edwards is equally adamant that they confirm the incident.

Delaney and Executive Councilors John Shea and Raymond Wieczorek criticized Edwards for discussing the case with media pending the AG's investigation. Filiault and his wife since have sold the Railroad Tavern....something they had been trying to do for 2 years. They also surendered their liquor licenses and agreed to stay out of the alcohol service business for t least 5 years. Filiault says he has no further interest in that occupation anyway.

Story WKBK News 2009