In what can only be described as a monumental victory for small businesses and personal liberty, Ian Smith, co-owner of Atilis Gym in Bellmawr, New Jersey, has triumphed over the draconian lockdown measures imposed by Democrat Governor Phil Murphy. A New Jersey court recently dismissed all 80 charges leveled against him, stemming from his audacious decision to keep his gym open amidst the COVID-19 lockdown frenzy.
The saga began in May 2020, when Smith bravely reopened Atilis Gym in direct defiance of Murphy’s unconstitutional lockdown orders. Not content with simply making an example out of Smith, Murphy’s administration went all-in. In July 2020, the confrontation reached its peak when a swarm of police officers barged into the gym, arresting Smith and his partner in an aggressive show of force. This wasn’t about public health—it was about power and control.
Let’s talk about the charges for a second. We’re not talking about a slap on the wrist here. Eighty charges were stacked against Smith, including violations of the governor’s order, public nuisance, disturbing the peace, and operating without a license. It sounds like a script straight out of a dystopian movie, doesn’t it? The state even seized $165,000 from the gym’s accounts—money that was raised through donations and apparel sales to support their legal battles. This was clearly an attempt to financially cripple Smith and deter any other business owners from daring to stand up against Murphy’s authoritarianism.
But justice prevailed. The court dropped all charges with prejudice, meaning the state can never refile these charges against Smith and Atilis Gym. It’s a definitive rebuke to Murphy’s tactics and a resounding win for anyone who values personal liberties over government overreach. Smith didn’t mince words when celebrating his victory either, directing some choice language towards Governor Murphy that has since gone viral. In a statement on social media, Smith declared, “Suck my d—k Phil Murphy.” This phrase perfectly captures the raw frustration and defiance that many feel towards arbitrary and oppressive regulations.
IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT – PLEASE SHARE THIS THIS POST.
4 years ago today, we reopened Atilis Gym in direct violation of an unconstitutional order by Governor Philip Murphy to close small businesses in New Jersey.
The support we received locally, nationally, and internationally…
— Ian Smith (@iansmithfitness) May 18, 2024
Smith’s victory is more than just a legal win; it’s a symbolic triumph for every small business owner crushed under the weight of excessive government mandates. It sends a clear message: Americans are willing to fight for their rights, despite the government’s attempts to stifle dissent.
This landmark decision revitalizes the ongoing battle for freedom and justice. Smith’s journey underscores the importance of standing up for what’s right, even when the odds seem insurmountable. It’s a reminder that liberty is worth fighting for, and sometimes, the good guys do win.
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