Nightclub Works To Repair Reputation

A downtown nightclub is trying to repair the damage done to its reputation after a shooting over the weekend. A city counselor wants Club Pure shut down. But, the nightspot's attorney says he doesn't have a legal leg to stand on.

News On 6 anchor Latoya Silmon reports the latest shooting victim is the club owner himself. Despite its new name and new ownership, Club Pure says it has to pay for the building's past sins.

The location is notorious for problems. The building has had three different names and three different shootings in 18 months.

"The club owners are very aware of the club's history," said Zach Smith, who is the Club Pure owner's attorney.

Owners under the new name Club Pure say this time things are different. But, shooting number three which broke out early on Sunday may have soured the club's fresh start. Now City Councilor Eric Gomez wants the place shut down

"This past weekend the owner's son was followed to the club. This was after hours. It had nothing to do with the operation of the club itself," said Smith.

Zach Smith says if anything, owner Leslie Morris is a victim. Smith says he was shot outside the club trying to protect his son.

"That city counselor is aware of the old club ownership, but I'm not so sure he's aware of the new club ownership," said Smith.

And they say a new owner means new changes like this metal detector.

"Any weapons that people would possess on them would set this off. It would let the staff know those people need to leave," said Smith.

Smith says the new detector and the 7 to 10 security officers that work here could make sure the problems won't gain admittance. He says the city counselor doesn't have a case.

"I don't know that they have a legal reason to shut this club down; as a nuisance, a public nuisance. I think the city counselor may be confused," said Smith.

The News On 6 was unable to reach Councilor Gomez. As for the victim, owner Leslie Morris is expected to make a full recovery and leave the hospital in a week or so.

Related Story:

07/13/2008 Nightclub Owner Shot In Back