The complaints reportedly stem from traffic and noise issues resulting from the weekend parties being held at the residence of Jim and Julie Trulock, known as "The Cherry Pit," which attracts nearly 100 participants for its "Naked Twister" nights.
Authorities in Duncanville claim they are not pursuing the case on any moral grounds but because they believe Jim Trulock is illegally operating a sexually oriented business from his home that features live sex acts — a claim based in part on the Trulocks' solicitation of monetary donations to cover party expenses and the online promotion of their parties.
"It's not trying to judge anyone or pass judgment on someone's lifestyle," city spokeswoman Tonya Lewis said.
Although voluntary donations are encouraged, there is no set admission charge for guests wanting to attend the parties, but an invitation from the hosts is required.
"It's crazy that they want to force their morality down our throats," said Dawn Burton, one of the guests. "We're all frustrated."
However, Lewis notes that the matter is about infringing on the rest of the city's rights. According to one of Trulock’s neighbors, Jack Martin, a major concern is that the parties will negatively impact property values.
"If you're going to do that, you should open a business," Martin said. "Go somewhere where it's allowed."
"We're not about infringing on the rights of the Cherry Pit patrons or owners," Lewis said. "But now your right to have fun has infringed on everyone else's. And now you have to draw the line."
Trulock has already received citations for three violations, the penalty for which is a maximum fine of $2,000.
While officials insist that their actions are not based on morality, they acknowledge that it is the basis of many of the complaints against the Trulocks' parties. "That's been a lot of complaints we've gotten from residents: 'I came to Duncanville to have a family. I didn't come here to live next to a sex club,'" Lewis said.
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