Texas Supreme Court Calls For The Release Of Dallas Salon Owner Who Refused To Close Her Business

On Tuesday, a Dallas salon owner was arrested and sentenced to seven days behind bars for violating Governor Greg Abbott’s stay-at-home policy. But now, just two days later, the Texas Supreme Court has ordered the owner’s release.

Last week, Shelley Luther received a cease-and-desist order from Dallas County Judge Clay Jenkins, demanding she close her salon due to the state’s public safety measures. Luther publicly tore up the letter after having reopened her salon on April 24.

Though Luther’s defiance garnered widespread praise and support, Luther was arrested and charged with criminal and civil contempt for her violation. She was sentenced to seven days in jail and slapped with a $7,000 fine, as Judge Eric Moye ordered her to pay 500 for every additional day the salon remained open until Friday.

“I have much respect for this court and laws. I have never been in this position before, and it’s not someplace that I want to be,” Luther said in court after refusing to apologize for her actions. “But I have to disagree with you, sir, when you say that I’m selfish because feeding my kids — is not selfish. I have hair stylists that are going hungry because they’d rather feed their kids. So sir, if you think the law is more important than kids getting fed, then please go ahead with your decision, but I am not going to shut the salon.”

Now, after two days behind bars, the Texas Supreme Court has ordered for Luther’s immediate release. The move comes shortly after Greg Abbott removed jail as a punishment for violating his coronavirus policies.

Abbott also released a statement about Luther’s imprisonment, saying, “Throwing Texans in jail who have had their businesses shut down through no fault of their own is nonsensical, and I will not allow it to happen.”

“That is why I am modifying my executive orders to ensure confinement is not a punishment for violating an order,” he added, making mention of Luther. In fact, he also called for the release of two other women who were arrested for violating the order.

“As some county judges advocate for releasing hardened criminals from jail to prevent the spread of COVID-19, it is absurd to have these business owners take their place,’ he said.