Charleston nightclub shut down by city for unlawful business operations

CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCSC) – Aura Latin Club’s doors on Ann Street are closed to the public after the city says unlawful activity at the establishment has been ongoing for months.

According to documentation obtained by Live 5 News, the city put the club on notice back in May 2023 when it was known as Deco, and since then has documented over 10 lease violations. Following that, the name was changed to Aura Latin Club and city attorney Julia Copeland said the business plan changed in an effort to show the city they were working to improve conditions.

From June 5, 2023, to March 10, 2024, documents show violations of aggravated assaults, a sex offense and assault on police while resisting arrest, on top of others.

Copeland stated in a letter in March that both the current occupant and the last subtenant have continued to operate the business in a manner that “fragrantly condones violence, underage drinking, public intoxication and disorderly conduct.”

As it is a city-owned building, the letter also stated that the city will move forward with its right of reentry on June 1, 2024.

In the process of this eviction, the city learned through an anonymous tip that the club was also hosting a male strip show.

“Hosting a male strip review is both in violation of the lease which prohibits adult uses and it violates the underlying base zoning,” Copeland said. “So, at that point, we put 28 Ann Street, which is the businesses license holder, on notice that their business license was going to be revoked.”

The city’s business license committee made the decision to revoke Aura’s license after they heard all sides, according to Copeland.

Mayor William Cogswell said in a statement:

We have zero tolerance for businesses that violate these rules designed to protect customers and business owners. Aura Nightclub was in clear violation of city laws by hosting and selling tickets to male strip shows, along with numerous, documented incidents involving assault, underage drinking, and other criminal activity. As part of the Charleston community, it’s crucial to operate responsibly and prioritize the welfare of our residents. Neglecting these rules will lead to consequences to maintain a safe environment for everyone.

The operator of the club has not responded to a request for comment.

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