City of St. Joseph v. Safris

Defendant was convicted of keeping a public dance house without a permit and his punishment 'assessed at a fine of $500. He has appealed.

He was prosecuted under an ordinance of the City of St. Joseph providing that—

“No person, firm or corporation shall keep a public dance house within the limits of the City of St. Joseph which shall be open promiscuously to the public, either upon the payment of an admission fee Or otherwise without a written permit issued therefor by the chief of police and the humane officer. ’ ’

The evidence shows that defendant operates a confectionery and restaurant…