TRENTON, NJ – After three years, a New Jersey gym that fought New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy’s COVID-19 business lockdown has won its case against local officials and the governor.
But it came at a great expense.
New Jersey Gym Wins Legal Battle Over Closure Orders
BELLMAWR, NJ—Four years after defying state orders by reopening, Atilis Gym celebrates a significant legal victory. The gym had reopened on this day in 2016, challenging Governor Philip Murphy’s mandate to close small businesses in New Jersey due to constitutional concerns.
The gym’s owner expressed profound gratitude for the widespread support that has bolstered their cause both locally and globally. The courts have dismissed over 80 municipal citations against Atilis Gym, including violations of the governor’s order, public nuisance, disturbing the peace, and operating without a license, all with prejudice.
This legal resolution bars the state from refiling these charges.
“The support we received locally, nationally, and internationally for our stand is something I will be forever grateful for. With that being said, I am thrilled to announce that we have achieved a major victory in the long, hard fight against the State,” the gym owners said on X. “ALL OF THE 80+ municipal citations of violations of a governor’s order, public nuisance, disturbing the peace, and operating without a license against us have been dropped by the courts WITH prejudice. This means the State has NO ability to revist or refile these charges.”
The dismissal of these charges reignites the gym’s campaign against what they describe as the “treasonous actions” of Governor Murphy and his administration.
The owner credited their victory to the unwavering support of their community and the legal representation provided by attorneys John McCann and Giancarlo Ghione, who, unlike other high-profile lawyers, did not shy away from the challenging and lengthy legal battle.
“Nobody is coming to save you, save yourself. Spit on your hands and hoist the black flag. No quarter,” they added.
Ian Smith, one of the owners of the gym, had a simple message for the governor.
“Suck my d— Phil Murphy,” he said.
