Aquarium Shut Down Twice In One Day After Violating Emergency Declaration

SAN ANGELO, TX – The San Antonio Aquarium was closed twice on Saturday after they refused to comply with the county’s emergency declarations that prohibits public gatherings of more than ten people.

According to My San Antonio, police had informed the aquarium that at this time they could not be open for business and were only allowed to have nine employees or less to take care of the animals.

On Saturday morning authorities were called to the establishment and they found the aquarium open to the public and with multiple patrons inside. The aquarium was issued a citation and ordered to be closed immediately.

Later that same day, officers returned once again to find the aquarium hosting a birthday party with more than 15 people inside and with 10 employees present. Police cleared out the place and issued another citation to the manager.

“The owner of the San Antonio Aquarium put the citizens, and now my officers in danger with his reckless actions,” said Leon Valley Police Chief Joe Salvaggio. “The last thing we want to do is to have to enforce laws that have been put in place for the health, safety, and welfare of the public. We ask for voluntary compliance as the laws are in the best interest of the public as a whole.”

Authorities stated that if the aquarium owner violates the ordinance again the police department will “revoke their certificate of occupancy and chain the entrance doors.”

Chief Salvaggio explained he is seeking additional charges against the owner, who was not present during either of the incidents.