City: Array of Crimes Occurred at Businesses
JACKSON, Tenn. – The city of Jackson filed public nuisance paperwork against three businesses on North Royal Street. The city claims all three of the businesses were selling stolen items and participating in other illegal activities. “I think you know they need to take reconsideration, you know. Give them a chance. Ain’t nobody perfect,” said Brenda McKinney, a customer. McKinney is a regular at the College Market, which is one of the businesses the city wants shut down. “They really good people,” she said. “They treat me nice. I have no problem with them.” The city wants to shut down College Market, International Fashions and the Royal Quick Stop. Jackson police raided all three businesses in April. “In our opinion the evidence showed through undercover operation that they were operating illegally,” said Jackson Mayor Jerry Gist. In court documents, the city claims the businesses sold stolen property and alcohol to minors. Two of the businesses allegedly served as a meeting place for gang members. The city also accused the businesses of food stamp fraud, money laundering, and tax evasion. “We have some great small businesses in our city and we encourage small businesses, but we do require that they abide by the law,” said Gist. Court papers show police responded to nearly 30 calls at College Market and International Fashions since January 2008 and 23 calls at the Royal Quick Stop since 2008. Customers plan to petition the city to allow the businesses to continue to operate. “I haven’t seen them do nothing illegal,” said McKinney. A hearing in Madison County Chancery Court is set for Friday.
