Jefferson County Public Health files lawsuit against Bandimere Speedway after “Stop the COVID Chaos” rally

JEFFERSON COUNTY, Colo. (KRDO) -- The Jefferson County Public Health Department filed a lawsuit Thursday against the Bandimere Speedway for violating public health orders during the "Stop the COVID Chaos" event.

"Stop the COVID Chaos" was held on September 1 and reportedly gathered more than 5,500 people at the venue, according to right-wing activist Michelle Malkin. Public health orders limit the capacity of venues to 175 people.

Supporters who went to the event chose not to wear masks even though Jefferson County requires masks outdoors when proper social distancing cannot be maintained.

The county public health department notified the venue ahead of the event about their concerns, stating "that large events, no matter their intent, remain subject to current Executive Orders and Public Health Orders as they are the law."

Jefferson County says it had no choice but to take legal action after Bandimere refused to comply with county and state health orders.

"Events like the Sept. 1 rally at Bandimere Speedway put everyone at risk," the public health department wrote in a statement. "As a community, we must work together to minimize the health impacts of COVID-19 both on an individual and economic level, which we can all do by continuing to be vigilant about public health precautions."