MURRELLS INLET, SC (WBTW) – Horry County wants the court to close Badd Kitty. The store sells lingerie, sex toys and other sensual items.
This month, county officials filed a lawsuit against the business saying it was operating as a “sex paraphernalia store.”
The lawsuit says the store is located within 1,500 feet of a residential neighborhood and therefore in violation of the county’s zoning ordinance.
“This is a family oriented town,” said nearby resident Jane Woerner. “The sign alone puts you off, ‘Badd Kitty’ says it’s not a very good store.”
Other residents like Cindy Parsons say the store’s location doesn’t bother them.
“If you don’t want to go in there, don’t go in there. I’d be terribly upset if a strip club went in there, but that looks like a Victoria’s Secret store to me,” explained Parsons.
Badd Kitty Owner John Gaik told News13 he was surprised to hear about the lawsuit.
“They’re saying it’s not respectable, and that’s wrong in my opinion. We promote sexual health and well being,” Gaik stated.
Gaik said he discussed the zoning issue with officials months ago. According to court documents, Badd Kitty opened in 2010 when the zoning ordinance only restricted adult video and book stores. Gaik thought he was grandfathered in.
However, the lawsuit states Badd Kitty violated both the current and previous ordinances.
News13 reached out to Gaik’s Attorney, but did not hear back.
Gaik owns Badd Kitty stores in Myrtle Beach and Atlantic Beach, but those locations fall under the city’s jurisdiction.
