The Orange Police Department Wednesday went to the Iron Horse Gym on Green Avenue after a complaint the business was open despite a governor’s order to be closed.
Detective Captain Robert Enmon said the gym owner refused to close because he claims he has the right to operate his business. The gym is at 1411 Green Avenue across the street from West Orange-Stark Middle School.
Enmon said police gathered information about the opening and has given it to the Orange County District Attorney for possible action.
Governor Greg Abbott closed non-essential businesses six weeks ago because of the covid pandemic.
On Monday, the governor announced he was letting hair and nail salons open on Friday. Gyms will be allowed to open on Monday, May 18, at 25 percent capacity with showers and locker rooms closed. The order includes requiring equipment to be sanitized after each use.
The governor Thursday amended his March executive order to eliminate jail time for businesses that operate despite his health order.
After the governor’s change, the Texas Supreme Court released the owner of a Dallas hair salon who operated her business despite the order. Earlier this week she was sentenced to seven days in the county jail.
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