By Bill Parry
A Dutch Kills nightclub has closed down after numerous incidents of violence, including the shooting of a livery cab driver in March.
Roberto Castillo, 34, was shot in the head as he was dropping off passengers in front of Club Purlieu, at 36-04 34th St., March 4. He survived, but there have been no arrests and the investigation was ongoing, according to the NYPD.
The incident resulted in pressure from elected and community leaders and sweeps by the 114th Precinct and the State Liquor Authority found multiple violations. A spokesman for the state Liquor Authority said the owners offered to cancel the license and will not reopen.
“The residents that live around this club no longer have to deal with the loud noise, quality-of-life nuisances or threats of violence that were associated with this establishment,” said Capt. Peter Fortune, commander of the 114th Precinct. City Councilman Jimmy Van Bramer (D-Sunnyside) called the nightspot a bad business and a bad neighbor.
“Club Purlieu was a clear and present danger to Dutch Kills, turning a residential neighborhood into a violent hotspot,” Van Bramer said.
Councilman Costa Constantinides (D-Astoria) said the club was notorious for violent activity, shootings, fire-safety violations and alcohol-related violations.
“We are heartened to learn that the club is now closed and will not continue to threaten our quality of life and public safety,” he said.
Reach reporter Bill Parry by e-mail at bparr
