Atlanta Eagle Gay Bar Trial Begins

The trial begins today in municipal court for employees and dancers at the Atlanta Eagle gay bar who were arrested during last year's raid and accused of violating city ordinances.

According to The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, the defendants are four bar employees and four dancers.

"The employees face business license charges, while the dancers are accused of providing adult entertainment without a license," reports the Journal-Constitution. "Up to 10 witnesses are expected to testify."

Each violation carries a maximum penalty of six months in jail and a $1,000 fine.

The police raid last September was prompted by undercover reports of drug activity and illicit sex. No drug or sex charges were filed during the raid, but the Atlanta city council will compel 18 police officers involved to answer questions from the Citizen Review Board about their conduct during the raid. Bar patrons allege the officers used antigay slurs and unnecessary force.