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Former FSU player sues city over bikini bars

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JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (AP) -- A former NFL player and Florida State wide receiver is suing the city of Jacksonville over a law that restricts sexually themed bars.

The Florida Times-Union reports that Laveranues Coles filed the lawsuit Monday in federal court in Jacksonville.

Coles is asking a judge to overturn the city's rules governing bikini bars and other similar businesses.

The city's planning commission denied Coles a zoning exception for a restaurant and "dancing establishment." Coles argues the sexual dancing at the restaurant would be for a consensual audience over the age of 18.

Coles' suit argues Jacksonville's rules infringe on his business's Constitutional right to free expression and asks for $75,000 in damages.

Jacksonville spokeswoman Marsha Oliver says they do not comment on pending lawsuits.

Coles played in the NFL from 2000-2010 for the Jets, Redskins and Bengals.