CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCSC) — An unidentified woman has filed a lawsuit against Planet Fitness after she claims she was sexually assaulted at a location in West Ashley.
The lawsuit says the woman was at the gym inside the Citadel Mall on July 24, 2024.
While working out on a Stairmaster machine, she says a man approached her, telling her that she was attractive.
Court documents say the man continued to follow her through the gym, including into a reserved area for specific members.
Court documents claim that while in a room in the reserved area, the man pinned her down and sexually assaulted her, telling her that no one was there and there were no cameras in the room.
The lawsuit says the woman ran from the gym and later returned to notify staff about the incident. The suit says staff told her that he was a “known problem.”
The woman and her attorneys are seeking damages for negligence and emotional distress.
Mark Peper with Peper Law Firm released a statement on the lawsuit, stating: “Every business has a duty to protect their invited guests from known dangers. It’s the law of our state, and we expect companies to follow it. Today’s filing will hold Planet Fitness accountable for failing to protect this strong and courageous young woman, and we’re honored to represent her.”
Planet Fitness has not responded to a request for comment.
Read the full lawsuit here:
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