The embattled owner of a controversial adult video store has filed papers to run for a seat on the Grover Beach City Council.
Steve Diamond, owner of Diamond Video World here and a second adult video store in nearby Atascadero, said he is running for a seat on the council because he is angry over his ongoing legal troubles with the city which has barred him from selling adult videos at his store, the Tribune News reported.
Grover Beach is a small community adjoining the Central California community of San Luis Obispo.
Under a June 2005 court ruling, a Grover Beach ordinance barring adult shops from the city did not violate Diamond’s constitutional rights of freedom of expression. The court also ruled that he could not continue to sell adult videos while he was appealing the decision. Diamond was also fined $10,000.
But instead of closing his shop, Diamond replaced his adult-themed merchandise with old magazines and newspapers as well as prom dresses and other items in protest. Police determined last October that the store was in compliance with the law. But an angry Diamond says he plans to win a seat on the council and help change the law.
