VIDEO: Authorities Arrest Owners Of Atilis Gym In Bellmawr After Continuously Defying New Jersey Shutdown Order
BELLMAWR, N.J. (CBS) -- Officials have arrested the owners of Atilis Gym in Bellmawr, New Jersey after they repeatedly defied Gov. Phil Murphy's COVID-19 shutdown order. Police say 33-year-old Ian Smith, of Delanco Township, and 51-year-old Frank Trumbetti, of Williamstown, are both charged with one count of fourth-degree contempt, obstruction, and violation of disaster control act -- both disorderly persons summons.
The owners had been staying inside the gym since last week when a judge ruled the gym was in contempt of Gov. Phil Murphy's order after reopening their doors.
From July 24 to July 27, officials say numerous people had been observed going in and out of the gym which was a direct violation of the court order.
Both owners refused to leave the gym when asked, resulting in the charges.
Atilis Gym posted a video of the arrest on Facebook.
"Well, this was a first," Dowlen said in a Facebook post. "I stayed the night in the gym writing, my book clients Ian & Frank were just waking up, I'm gathering my computer & notebooks, just waiting for the guys to come out for a few final questions, and then a SWARM of Camden County Sheriffs & local Bellmawr police (with K-9 units waiting in a vehicle) come bursting thru the door....to me, sitting there, writing, by myself. First & foremost, the law enforcement officers were polite & respectful. Look for my video footage on national channels. And tonight/this morning, I am writing this new book chapter right now!!!"
Trumbetti and Smith were taken to the Bellmawr Police Department where they were charged and released.
Stay with CBSPhilly.com for updates to this developing story.
