Chelsea Police conduct inspection at Hell's Liquor Store ahead of licensing hearing

In the heart of Chelsea, Massachusetts, the Licensing Commission convened to address pressing matters concerning local businesses, including a significant inspection of Hell's Liquor Store. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation as Officer Barker Santiago presented a detailed report from an administrative inspection conducted on April 8, 2025.

Officer Santiago, alongside Sergeant Star Chung, embarked on a routine walkthrough of Hell's Liquor Store, located at 429 Bridal Street. Their mission was to ensure compliance with licensing regulations ahead of a scheduled conference with the commission. However, the inspection quickly revealed complications. The officers attempted to access the rear emergency exit on Hawthorne Street but found it locked, raising concerns about safety and accessibility.

This was not the first time Hell's Liquor Store faced scrutiny. In 2013, the Licensing Commission had imposed a 14-day suspension on the establishment due to various infractions, including issues related to trespassing. As a result, the rear door had been designated as no longer an entrance or exit. The officers' inability to enter through this door highlighted ongoing compliance challenges.

After several attempts to gain entry, the officers were greeted by an employee, Kelly Zapata Usaga, who communicated with them in Spanish. She informed the officers that the store's owner was not present but made a call to notify him of the inspection. This interaction underscored the importance of communication and cooperation between law enforcement and local businesses in maintaining community standards.

As the meeting progressed, the commission members listened intently, aware that the outcomes of such inspections could have lasting implications for the business and the community. The discussions surrounding Hell's Liquor Store serve as a reminder of the delicate balance between regulation and support for local enterprises, a theme that resonates deeply within the fabric of Chelsea. The commission's decisions in the coming weeks will undoubtedly shape the future of this establishment and its role in the community.