FRANKLIN, Wis. — Irish Cottage of Franklin LLC has filed a lawsuit challenging the City of Franklin’s decision to suspend the establishment’s license, according to court records.
The lawsuit comes after the Franklin Common Council voted in June to suspend Irish Cottage’s license for 30 days starting Sept. 1. The suspension stems from a November 2024 crash in which a Franklin man was killed by a drunk driver who had been served alcohol at the Franklin establishment before the crash.
The victim’s widow, Debra Riegling, has spoken publicly about the lasting impact of her husband’s death and the importance of holding establishments accountable when alcohol is served to intoxicated people.
PREVIOUS REPORT: Franklin widow shares husband's memory as city suspends bar's license
The 30-day suspension was scheduled to begin Sept. 1.
Irish Cottage, however, has taken the matter to Milwaukee County Court, seeking to block the suspension. According to court records, the establishment was granted a temporary restraining order in connection with the dispute. A hearing is currently scheduled for Sept. 18.
The legal challenge puts the city’s decision on hold while the court considers Irish Cottage’s claims.
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