In November 2023, Joliet police arrested and tased a gym owner in his facility during an interaction over an alleged noise violation. A video of the incident, which occurred at Joliet’s Underground Fitness, went viral.
What happened
Police arrived at Underground Fitness to investigate an alleged noise violation.
The gym owner, believing he was not breaking any law, refused to turn down the music and was allegedly uncooperative with the officers.
The situation escalated, and the gym owner was tased and arrested.
The arrest was captured on video and sparked debate online regarding the officers’ use of force.
Aftermath
Mattingly was charged with aggravated battery and resisting a peace officer.
He later filed a federal lawsuit against the city of Joliet and the officers involved, alleging police misconduct.
The incident drew significant attention from civil rights advocates and prompted discussions about police procedures and the rights of business owners.
The Patch later reported that the charges were dismissed when all four police officers did not appear in court for his trial.