Love Shack Legal Battle Continues

JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — The legal battle over The Love Shack, a 10,000 square-foot adult retail store operating in a suburban Atlanta neighborhood, took a new turn today, when a federal judge ordered the store owner to close his doors or face a possible contempt violation.

U.S. District Court Judge Thomas Thrash rejected a claim by Love Shack owner John Cornetta that the retail establishment complied with Fulton County rules and should be treated as a regular store. However, Thrash did allow Cornetta a small reprieve — giving him until 3 p.m. to file an appeal.

Immediately after the federal court granted the county’s request for a preliminary injunction to close the store, Cornetta and his attorneys filed a notice of appeal with the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals.

In his ruling, Thrash said it was clear to him that Cornetta was operating an adult store without proper permits and in violation of local zoning ordinances. He then warned Cornetta that if he stayed open with a “significant” amount of adult material, he would risk being held in contempt of court. However, the judge refused to define what a “significant” amount of adult material was.

“The judge was completely off-base and off the law,” Cornetta said. “Can they have a sign that says 'Don't drive too fast through town' — but we're not telling what that means? The 11th Circuit is going to remand it to him, I guarantee it.”

This latest turn in the legal saga of the Love Shack marks a setback for Cornetta, who last week won a small victory in a state court when Judge Jerry Baxter tossed out the county’s claim that the store was open in violation of local laws. Baxter said the federal court, where Cornetta had earlier filed a case to force the county to issue him a business license, was a better venue for the matter.

There is no word yet on when the 11th Circuit will hear Cornetta’s appeal.

The Love Shack remains open pending appeal.

Copyright © 2025 Adnet Media. All Rights Reserved. XBIZ is a trademark of Adnet Media.
Reproduction in whole or in part in any form or medium without express written permission is prohibited.

More News

Blush Introduces 'Golden Dawn' Dildo From Avant Line

Blush has debuted the Golden Dawn dildo from its Avant Collection.

Orion Debuts 'Nodding Head' Vibe From Sweet Smile Line

Orion Wholesale has introduced the Vibrator With a Nodding Head from its Sweet Smile line.

Full Circle Debuts New 'Cleo Feather' Vibe

Pleasure brand Full Circle has introduced its new Cleo Feather Tickler vibrator.

Pjur Launches 'Toy' Line in North America

Pjur has announced its Toy series of wellness products will be available for purchase in the U.S. starting in September.

Orion Expands Cottelli 'Costumes' Line

Orion Wholesale has introduced two new outfits from its Cottelli Costumes line.

Harry Styles' Lifestyle Brand Enters Sexual Wellness Space With 'Pleasing Yourself' Vibe, Lube

Pleasing, the lifestyle brand founded by Harry Styles, has launched its first sexual wellness product line, Pleasing Yourself, featuring a double-sided vibrator and a silicone lubricant.

Tenga Names Kyrie Hara Sales Lead

Japanese pleasure brand Tenga has appointed Kyrie Hara as its new sales lead for Tenga USA.

Electric Novelties Expands 'Together' Collection

Electric Novelties has introduced four new items from its Together collection.

Motorbunny Debuts 'Grip' Stroker Attachment

Motorbunny has introduced its Grip stroker sleeve attachment for its sex machines.

SOS Distribution Names Jake Solorzano Account Executive

SOS Distribution has appointed Jake Solorzano as its new account executive.

Show More