A Massachusetts gym that has been operating for nearly a month in defiance of state coronavirus restrictions had its utilities shut off this week, according to NBC News.
A Massachusetts gym that has been operating for nearly a month in defiance of state coronavirus restrictions had its utilities shut off this week, according to NBC News.
Prime Fitness in Oxford, Mass., had its water and electricity cut off this week as owner David Blondin’s defiance of the restrictions continued. Blondin opened the gym on May 18 during phase one of the state’s reopening plan, though fitness centers were a part of phase three.
Blondin has faced numerous fines and judgments since May, including a June 5 ruling by Superior Court judge Susan E. Sullivan barring Blondin or any associates from operating the facility. Sullivan this week ordered that Oxford "shall take any and all reasonable measures" to keep the facility closed — including changing the locks, boarding up doors and windows, and discontinuing utilities at Blondin’s expense.Â
On Thursday, the town took action and cut off utility services.
"This action was taken in the clear interest of protecting public health and safety. The operation of a gym is not currently permitted under the Governor’s phased reopening plan," Oxford attorney Mark Reich told NBC News. "The court has since found the operator in contempt and has ordered the Town to take action to address this public health threat. That is the basis for this action."
Blondin has continuously fought to keep his doors open, and even encouraged other gym owners in the state to join him in defying state mandates. Blondin shared a GoFundMe campaign to raise money to cover his daily fines — which since the June 5 decision have been $1,000 per day.
