High court backs denial of strip club

Thursday, July 11, 2002 | 9:53 a.m.

CARSON CITY -- Max Markovitz, a former cabaret owner in Detroit, has lost his appeal to the Nevada Supreme Court for a license to operate a topless club in Las Vegas.The court Wednesday said the Clark County Liquor and Gaming Licensing Board had adequate reasons to deny a liquor permit to Markovitz and Sharron Markovitz, who sought a license for a adult cabaret that they wanted to buy for $2 million on West Hacienda Avenue.

The court said a police investigation showed that Markovitz either owed or lent money to adult entertainment clubs operated by his son, Alan, in Michigan. Those clubs have been charged with violating numerous laws in that state.

The court called it substantial evidence upon which Clark County officials could rely in denying a license. In addition, the police report indicated Markovitz's son had a significant role in securing and renovating the Las Vegas site for the club.

The court said there was a justified concern that Alan Markovitz -- who has a history of breaching Michigan law -- could have ended up owning the club someday.

The court also noted there was opposition from surrounding business owners that the granting of a license may cause their property values to go down.

The background investigation also showed the Detroit cabarets run by Alan Markovitz were notorious for shootings and lewd acts.