Bookies co-owner severs ties after Facebook post

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A Detroit hot spot under fire after one of the owners made inflammatory remarks on social media says it is severing ties with that co-owner.

Bookies co-owner Mark Jerant said in so many words on Facebook that if Terence Crutcher, the man who was fatally shot by police in Tulsa, Okla., had listened to police, he would be alive today.

Jerant chimed in on a friend's Facebook post about the shooting, saying in part, "Listen to police who have guns pointed at you and don't get shot. it isn't hard."

Many were upset by Jerant's comments and said they were going to begin boycotting the popular bar.

Fellow co-owner Jay Lambrecht told FOX 2 he disagreed with the comments his business partner made.

"His comments are not part of my views (and) are not part of Bookies bar and grills' views," Lambrecht told us.

Now, Lambrecht says the bar is severing ties with Jerant effective immediately and that Lambrecht, the majority owner of the bar, will now be the sole owner.

"Bookies Bar and Grille has always been a welcoming place for all patrons from Detroit to the suburbs, regardless of race, color or creed," Lambrecht said in a press release. "To reiterate my comments early this week, I do not condone or agree with the comments made on social media by my former business partner. Those comments go against the culture of inclusion, diversity and respect for my patrons and employees I have worked hard to establish at Bookies Bar and Grille. Thus, I felt it best that Bookies move in a direction that shows our commitment to continue to offer a welcoming environment for all in Detroit."

Jerant has issued an apology for the tone and tenor of his comments, saying they were part of spirited discussion with an African-American friend of more than 18 years.

Bookies opened in Detroit in 2003 in the Book Building. Near Comerica Park, it is especially popular for many on game days.

"Mark's comments in no way reflect what I believe, or that of our hard working employees.  People are upset, and rightfully so. I decided we needed to move forward with this change to make sure that Bookies remains a place where all people feel welcome. I am truly sorry, and offer my apology and commitment to earn your trust, respect and business at Bookies Bar and Grille, " Lambracht added.