A South Carolina judge has granted a temporary injunction in favor of Crazy Horse Inc., owner of Thee Dollhouse strip club, blocking Atlantic Beach’s ordinance that restricts sexually oriented businesses. The ordinance, which limits operating hours, alcohol sales, and performer interactions, was deemed invalid because Councilman Edward Lamar Campbell, who helped pass it, was serving illegally due to a prior felony conviction. Crazy Horse sued the town, arguing the ordinance was adopted without proper legal notice and would destroy their business, which has paid over $20 million in licensing fees under the assumption it could continue operating as before.

Crazy Horse also filed a freedom of speech lawsuit with two performers and the town’s former police chief, alleging the ordinance violates constitutional rights and that the town targeted the club for local development interests. The former chief claimed wrongful termination after refusing to fabricate evidence against the club. While the latest lawsuit was voluntarily dismissed, the injunction remains in place as the main case challenging the ordinance continues. The legal battle highlights tensions between the club and Atlantic Beach officials over regulatory authority and constitutional protections.