New Jersey gym owners who reopened in violation of governor’s orders receive summons
Cops issued a summons to the owners of a New Jersey gym that flouted Gov. Phil Murphy’s stay-at-home regulations to reopen Monday morning — but the owners still plan to keep their business running.
The disorderly conduct summons, issued to Atilis Gym owners Ian Smith and Frank Trumbetti on Monday afternoon, did not specify the penalty — but state law indicates the offense could land them six months in county jail and a fine of up to $1,000.
Camden County gave the order for the summons, which was delivered by Bellmawr police, according to a man who answered the phone at the gym.
“We’re assuming that came down from the governor,” he said. “It’s my assumption.”
Gym-goers and supporters gathered outside were asked to disperse, which they did.
“I think it was important we show some faith because this was never a battle with law enforcement,” the man said. “We complied with that, we had the crowd disperse.”
The gym will open again Tuesday, he added.
Hours earlier, the owners had hoped they were in the clear.
Two Bellmawr police officers, wearing masks, came to the door of the Atilis Gym shortly after 10 a.m. and asked to speak with Smith and Trumbetti.
“We are and were only here for everybody’s safety today,” one officer said, addressing the owners and the crowd. “We plan for the worst and hope for the best, and it seems like that’s what we have out here today. Formally, you are all in violation of the executive order. On that note, have a good day, everybody be safe.”
The owners hugged each other, and more than 100 people crowding the gym’s parking lot high-fived each other and cheered, “USA! USA!,” “Freedom!” and “We won!”
“[The officers] actually surprised the hell out of me,” Trumbetti told WCAU. “[They] did their job and upheld their oath … and know that we are not doing anything wrong.”
Earlier in the morning, Bellmawr authorities and New Jersey State Police used their own cruisers, as well as Department of Public Works vehicles, to block some entrances in an attempt to limit the number of people entering the gym.
People were able to enter through another doorway.
Trumbetti urged other businesses to follow in the gym’s footsteps, but “make sure you’re compliant, you can’t just open up and be a rebel,” he added.
The gym has taken several precautions, including taking temperatures at the door and spacing equipment about 10 feet apart.