Judge: Love Shack lacks required license

Judge: Love Shack lacks required license
Close or comply, adult-themed store is told

By Doug Nurse
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Published on: 02/24/08

A Fulton County Superior Court judge last week handed the city of Johns Creek a significant legal victory over the Love Shack, an adult-themed store.

In his ruling from the bench, Judge Ural Glanville said the Love Shack doesn't have a required 2007 business license and must close if it does not comply with city ordinances.

The closure order doesn't take effect until the judge signs a written order, which could come as soon as Monday.

"We're happy with the judge's order because it vindicates that this business is operating illegally since the city's inception [Dec. 1, 2006] and brings us one step closer to either it operates in compliance under our laws or it closes its doors," said Mayor Mike Bodker.

In March, the city denied a regular business application sought by the adult-video chain owner, John Cornetta, but the store has continued operating anyway.

Johns Creek officials wanted a court order to shut the controversial store or make Cornetta comply with city ordinances.

Lawyers from both camps cautioned against drawing conclusions until the judge signs a written order, because the order could include important nuances.

Cornetta said he is in compliance with the city ordinance and will apply for a business license for the current year