Bryant Biker Bar Owner Defends Permit Violations to Alcoholic Beverage Control Director

Dr. Jesse Burks says he didn't realize he was serving alcohol without a valid permit and is taking steps to prevent future issues.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 9:53pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a liquor bottle cap or bar counter surface lit by a harsh, direct camera flash, creating a stark, gritty, investigative aesthetic that conceptually represents the regulatory issues facing a small bar owner.A harsh flash illuminates the details of a liquor-related crime scene, exposing the complex regulatory challenges facing small bar owners.Little Rock Today

The owner of a Bryant, Arkansas bar, Dr. Jesse Burks, told the head of the state's Alcoholic Beverage Control Division that he didn't mean to violate permitting rules and is working to prevent future problems, including serving as security himself on weekends. Burks faced multiple violations related to a June fight involving outlaw bikers and serving alcohol without a valid permit.

Why it matters

This case highlights the challenges small business owners can face in navigating complex liquor licensing and permitting requirements, as well as the potential consequences of even unintentional violations. It also raises questions about the role of law enforcement and regulatory agencies in monitoring and enforcing compliance at establishments that serve alcohol.

The details

Burks, who owns the Burks Brothers Brewery & Taproom, told Alcoholic Beverage Control Division Director Christy Bjornson that he didn't realize until January that he had been serving customers without a valid permit. Since then, three additional violations related to serving alcohol without a permit have been issued against Burks. The maximum fine if the violations are upheld is $4,200, and Burks' permit could also be suspended or revoked, or he could be placed on probation. Burks rejected an earlier offer to settle two violations related to the June fight in exchange for a $2,000 fine and 90-day probation.

  • On June 28, a fight involving outlaw bikers occurred at the bar.
  • On July 2, Alcoholic Beverage Control agents and Bryant police identified a room with a disguised door at the bar.
  • In December, Burks faced two violations related to the June 28 fight and a warning for changing the business's floor plan.
  • Since then, three additional violations related to serving alcohol without a valid permit have been levied against Burks.
  • On January 9, Burks learned that his conditional permit meant he should not have been selling alcohol, and he immediately closed the bar until he could get the permit in order, which happened within hours.

The players

Dr. Jesse Burks

The foot and ankle surgeon who owns the Burks Brothers Brewery & Taproom bar in Bryant, Arkansas.

Christy Bjornson

The director of the Arkansas Alcoholic Beverage Control Division.

Katie Hinojosa

The lead attorney for the Department of Finance and Administration's regulatory division.

Scott Hardin

A spokesman for the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration.

Brandye Ward

An employee who handles applications for the Alcoholic Beverage Control agency.

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What they’re saying

“We're not here to throw the book at you. We're here to make sure that alcohol is sold in a responsible manner.”

— Christy Bjornson, Alcoholic Beverage Control Division Director

“This had gone on for years without anybody saying anything.”

— Kale Ludwig, Representative for Dr. Jesse Burks

“I need to get help next time.”

— Dr. Jesse Burks, Bar Owner

What’s next

It may take a week or two for Director Bjornson to issue her decision on the violations against Burks' bar. If she upholds the violations, Burks can still appeal the decision to the Alcoholic Beverage Control board.

The takeaway

This case highlights the complex regulatory environment small business owners must navigate when operating establishments that serve alcohol, and the importance of seeking professional legal assistance to ensure compliance with all relevant laws and permitting requirements.