Mistress of Mayfair licence suspended after throat-slashing attack

Westminster City Council’s Licensing Sub-Committee suspended the licence of the Mistress of Mayfair on 17 August 2026. The decision followed an emergency hearing triggered by a violent attack at the St James’s Street venue a week earlier. The Metropolitan Police requested the suspension, citing serious concerns over the club’s management and public safety.

Police report failures in security and ID checks

Superintendent Natasha Evans, in a written statement to the council, said the venue had failed to comply with a condition requiring all customers’ IDs to be scanned upon entry. This lapse meant the identities of the suspect and potential witnesses were not recorded. Evans described the attempted murder as one of the most serious offences under law and said she had no confidence the venue could operate safely.

The attack occurred on 10 August 2026. Rhys Copas, the victim, suffered an 8cm wound from his left ear to the middle of his throat, along with injuries to his cheeks. Prosecutor Manisha Kukadia told Hendon Magistrates’ Court on 12 August that Copas’ jugular was severed, nerves were damaged, and his voice box was exposed. He remains in a stable condition.

Club’s response and next steps

The Mistress of Mayfair voluntarily closed after the incident and has cooperated with police. Legal counsel for the venue told the council the licence holder would address the allegations at a full summary review hearing within 28 days. The club accepted the police’s call for a temporary suspension if the council deemed it necessary.

Lucci Guthrie, 28, was charged with attempted murder on 12 August 2026. Prosecutors said the attack followed an altercation over Copas’ relationship with Guthrie’s former partner. Guthrie is scheduled to appear at the Old Bailey on 9 September 2026. Two individuals were later arrested for allegedly obstructing police at the scene, and officers deployed PAVA spray to regain control.

What happens next

The Mistress of Mayfair’s licence remains suspended pending a full review hearing, expected within 28 days of the 17 August decision. Westminster City Council will determine whether to revoke the licence permanently or impose new conditions. Guthrie’s trial at the Old Bailey is set to begin on 9 September 2026.