The owner of a popular Auburn bar, Skybar Café, was found guilty Tuesday of sexual misconduct.

Skybar is located on Magnolia Street in downtown Auburn and is frequented by students of Auburn University.

According to the Auburn Villager, Pat Grider was found guilty in Municipal Court on one count of sexual misconduct for groping and harassing a 24-year-old female employee.

The Auburn Villager did not identify the victim. 

The victim also accused Grider of offering her money in exchange for sexual acts and said Grider likes to surround himself with women, and said he was prone to offer them money if they hung around.

The defense claimed that the woman had a relationship with Grider and read multiple text messages in which she said she loved him. The prosecution claimed the woman typically says that to many of her friends.

Grider was found guilty by Municipal Judge Jim McLaughlin. City Prosecutor Justin Clark requested a six-month jail sentence with “hard labor.” McLaughlin suspended the jail sentence and set Grider’s appeal bond at $1,000.

Grider’s attorney indicated that he would appeal the ruling.

To connect with the author of this story, or to comment, email will.blakely@1819news.com

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