The New Jersey gym that vowed to re-open in violation of the state’s coronavirus lockdown has finally been shut down.
But its owners are escalating the fight.
The Atilis Gym in Bellmawr, NJ, was finally shut down by the health department four days after reopening, according to a video posted on the gym’s Instagram page.
“Alright guys, so we arrived at the gym this morning to Governor Murphy’s dirty tricks, playing with his power in the health department,” said one of the gym’s owners.
“For right now, the gym will be closed,” he added. “We have a full cleaning crew inside, once again, going above and beyond.”
The post included a typed message that said, “Filing a suit against [Gov. Murphy] first thing this morning.”
According to co-owner Frank Trumbetti, orange “Notice of Embargo” stickers were placed on the building by the state Department of Health. The health department, however, did not give an inspection of the building.
“They did it overnight like cowards,” added Trumbetti.
Were Trumbetti to reopen the gym, he could face criminal sanctions of civil penalties.
The gym has already racked up $3,000 in fines for the three days it was open.