The new owners of Pullman’s Baskin Robbins, a brother and sister duo, are making changes to the business as the former owner awaits trial on molestation charges.

Ruslan Cox, one of the new owners, said former owner Dennis Cox, their father, is no longer a part of Pullman’s Baskin Robbins. Despite their relation to Dennis Cox, Ruslan Cox said he and his sister, Viktoria Velliz, were directly responsible for putting him away to ensure the safety of their family and the community.

“This is a brother-and-sister business now,” he said.

When Dennis Cox was arrested, the store was shut down for three weeks. According to court documents, Dennis Cox, 59, was charged in late July after the victim, a minor, gave a detailed report to Pullman Police of sexual abuse starting in December.

The victim reported the abuse occurred at Dennis Cox’s home, cabin, car and at Pullman’s Baskin Robbins, according to the documents.

Pullman Police charged Dennis Cox with one count of rape of a child in the third degree, three counts of third-degree child molestation and a couple gross misdemeanors, according to the documents. Cox was released on bond to his residence and is not allowed to have contact with females under the age of 18, according to the documents. His trial begins Sept. 11.

Though Ruslan Cox and Velliz picked up the day-to-day operations easily, Ruslan Cox said they are still learning about the backend of their business.
“We’re still young and have a lot to learn,” he said.

He said they have since been recovering from the lost time, but intend to add Velliz’s husband, Ryan Velliz, as another owner to help with the business.
Regardless of the business shutdown and the controversy surrounding it, Ruslan Cox said they have received an overwhelming amount of support from the community.

“There was some hesitance, but I have yet to receive anything negative,” he said. “I’m amazed.”
Because of this support, he said their changes will focus on being more involved in the community, including the possibility of having a block party with the next-door Subway, and other events.

He said for the most part, the day-to-day operation will be the same, and they will still include their dollar-scoop specials.

“Other than that,” he said, “I’m trying to smile more.”

Correction: Ruslan Cox was misidentified as Ruslam Cox.