Medusas Legal Fees

Hello!

If you're in/around Rochester, NY, you may have seen the article posted by WXXI regarding a citation we received from the City of Rochester. Because MedusasROC is an LLC, we must be present on the court date with legal representation. We invested our entire life savings into opening Medusas and have continued re-investing into the business, thus, we are short on funds that will be required for legal fees.

Who are we?

If you are unsure who MedusasROC LLC is, let's introduce it. Medusas is a locally owned boutique located in Rochester, NY. It is focused on sex education, wellness, and safety. It's owned by two folks who are passionate about education and advocacy. Kristy is a master's prepared nurse and Randy is a CASAC-T. It's a space that is designed to be a safe space for all to learn and ask questions. It's also intended to be a space where anyone who walks through the door can feel comfortable and find something unique for themselves or others. There is also free information (and condoms) for setting up free STD testing (at home or in person) in Rochester as well as access to PrEP for HIV prevention.

What is the citation for?

The citation is for “operating an adult retail store without a license”. The problem is, however, licensing and regulation for such things are primarily for safety and to prevent the spread of STDs amongst the community. Medusas is not an adult entertainment facility or business. There is no exposure to or exchange of bodily fluids. There isn’t even nudity present inside the store. Shopping at Medusas is akin to shopping at Spencer's on the mall, or popping into your local CVS, Target, Walmart, etc. for intimate supplies. The store's inventory does not meet the requirements for such a license. Additionally, licensing would zone the business outside of its present location. Said location was renovated after years of vacancy and is in an easy-access location for those in need.

Community Response

As a result of the news, we have had a tremendous outpouring of positivity and support from the community. This GoFundMe is to cover any legal fees. We aren't sure how much this will cost, so we set a high goal. Any funds that are remaining will be donated in full to the MOCHA Center of Rochester, whose mission is to connect LGBTQ people of color with events and programs that promote healthy, sex-positive living. They provide STD screening, free HIV testing, and PrEP. They’re a great asset to our community and open to everyone and anyone.

Thank you so much for reading and providing support. Through teamwork and the compassion and progressiveness that we are lucky to have in Rochester, we can make positive changes and keep Medusas as it is.

Thank you again!

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