“You are all in violation of the Executive Order. On that note… have a good day and everybody be safe.”
Bellmawr FOR Everybody #SmallBusinessIsEssential pic.twitter.com/PNoMAWgVdo
— Atilis Gym Bellmawr (@TheAtilisGym) May 18, 2020
Looks like local cops refuse to enforce Governor decree t.co/AFyAkrXa2d
— Tim Pool (@Timcast) May 18, 2020
IN THE FACE OF WIDESPREAD POPULAR RESISTANCE, ENFORCEMENT IS INCREASINGLY HALF-HEARTED: Police to New Jersey gym that opened in defiance of order: “Have a good day.”
People keep telling me that the long night of fascism is descending on America, but what I’m seeing is the biggest popular revolt against authority in my lifetime.
Hundreds of supporters crowded around the front of a New Jersey gym early Monday as the owner made good on his defiant vow to reopen at 8 a.m. despite the state’s order that all such facilities remain closed to slow the spread of the coronavirus.
Ian Smith, co-owner of Atilis Gym in Bellmawr, unlocked the doors to allow a limited number of members to use the facility as local police cars ringed the strip mall parking lot and set up traffic control with barrels. Members were being checked for temperatures as they entered and were required to wear face coverings. Smith said they will limit capacity to 20% or about 44 people at a time.
An officer from the Bellmawr police department came to the gym door shortly after 10 a.m.
“He told us that we were in violation of the state order; stay safe and have a nice day,” said Kevin Barry, an attorney for the gym.
The officer then walked away as the crowd cheered.
The lockdown is ending because the American people say it’s ending. No further explanation from government is necessary.
Thanks.— Dan Bongino (@dbongino) May 18, 2020
h/t GR