Week In Review: Sebastian's Shut Down, JHS Keeps Accreditation, Chafee Tax Plan Reaction

Sebastian's Out Of Business: The Johnston Town Council voted on April 11 to revoke all three business licenses held by Sebastian's Party Place, following an April 2 police raid. During the council meeting, Police Maj. John Perrotta said the hall's owner, Steven Santilli, claimed the "swinger" party — during which undercover officers witnessed nudity and a sex act — was a private birthday party. Santilli is due for arraignment on June 2 on a state felony charge of presenting an obscene show.

Good News For JHS: During the school committee meeting of April 12, Johnston High School Principal Gerald Foley reported that JHS had earned a renewal of its accreditation status from the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NECAP). In 2000, the agency put the school on academic probation.

Chamber Exec Weighs In On Chafee Tax Plan: North Central Chamber of Commerce President Deb Ramos said she was "thrilled" to hear that state House Speaker Gordon Fox had rejected Gov. Lincoln Chafee's tax plans, which included new fees on a wide array of goods and services.

Cops Nab 2 In ID Theft Scam: Johnston Police reported on April 15 that they had charged two Providence women with identity theft in what appears to be a multi-state scam involving T-Mobile customers. One of the suspects reportedly told police that the pair had used customers' social security and phone numbers to arrange illegal purchases of expensive cell phones.