In a controversial case, Linda Harper, the proprietor of Luxe Salon in Dallas, Texas, has been sentenced to jail for refusing to comply with state-mandated coronavirus restrictions. Harper continued to operate her salon despite a temporary restraining order issued by a local judge, which explicitly prohibited her business from remaining open during the pandemic.
On April 25, during a rally advocating for the reopening of businesses, Harper publicly tore up a cease-and-desist letter in front of a gathering of supporters, demonstrating her defiance against the law. Dallas County Judge Eric Moye ruled that Harper, along with her business entity, Luxe Enterprises, was in criminal and civil contempt for her actions. He described her refusal to cease operations as “deliberate, blatant, and intentional,” ultimately sentencing her to seven days in jail.
Judge Moye remarked, “The defendants, having had the chance to express regret, have shown no sign of remorse or contrition for their actions.” Harper, who faces additional fines amounting to $3,500 on top of her jail term, defended her choice by stating she was motivated by a desire to provide for her children and employees, insisting that her actions were not selfish. “I disagree with you saying I’m selfish; feeding my kids isn’t selfish,” she argued. “I have stylists who are struggling to support their families. If you believe the law is more important than ensuring children are fed, then proceed with your decision. But I will not close the salon.”
Harper’s attorney, David Kent, announced plans to file a petition for a writ of habeas corpus in an effort to secure her release from jail. He emphasized that Harper believes her stance is justified and that she will not shut down her salon before the end of the week, despite accruing a $500 daily fine for each day she remains open in violation of the court’s order. “She feels strongly about her position and is determined not to back down,” Kent stated. “The judge is signaling that there will be serious repercussions for those who defy the order.”
Although hair and nail salons in Texas are set to reopen on May 8, the state has reported over 33,000 confirmed cases of coronavirus and nearly 1,000 deaths, with Dallas County alone accounting for more than 4,300 cases and 114 fatalities.
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In summary, Linda Harper’s defiance against state health orders has resulted in her incarceration, with no signs of remorse for her actions. Her case has sparked significant debate about the balance between individual rights and public health during a crisis.
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