(AmericanProsperity.com) – Many small businesses have been able to reopen with strict social-distancing measures and limited capacity. However, these reopening policies aren’t being equally applied or enforced. New Jersey began enforcing its order to keep gyms closed this week by taking drastic action.
Ian Smith and Frank Trumbetti own Atilis gym in Bellmawr, New Jersey, a suburb of Philadelphia. They opened their gym with individualized workout stations, masks, temperature checks, and imposed a limit of 20% of the building capacity. However, this still was illegal under the state’s mandate and the Honorable Judge Robert T. Lougy issued a contempt order on July 24 demanding the gym cease operations.
The owners of Atilis Gym in Bellmawr were arrested and released early Monday morning after continuing to operate their business despite a judge issuing a contempt order on Friday, according to Acting Camden County Prosecutor Jill S. Mayer. Details here: https://t.co/jmKt5kdHs6 pic.twitter.com/gZ0fWofLhy
— Camden Co Prosecutor (@CamdenCoPros) July 27, 2020
So, on Monday, July 27, police arrested both owners and charged them with fourth-degree contempt, obstruction, and violation of the Disaster Control Act.
This is wrong. And insane.
Rule of LAW, not whim of tyrants. https://t.co/W72iLVj0tw
— Jenna Ellis (@JennaEllisEsq) July 28, 2020
While small businesses struggle to make ends meet, most take precautions to keep customers and employees safe while still bringing in an income. Small businesses and their owners are the cornerstone of our economy and must be protected, not unjustly punished for trying to stay afloat.
~Here’s to Your Prosperity!
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