Windsor Police Headquarters, June 18, 2018. WindsorNewsToday.ca file photo.Windsor Police Headquarters, June 18, 2018. WindsorNewsToday.ca file photo.
Windsor

Windsor police clarifies stay-at-home enforcement

Windsor police are addressing questions asked by the community on how the province's COVID-19 stay-at-home enforcement will be handled.

The province issued a stay-at-home order that took effect early Thursday morning, which required Ontarians to help slow the spread of the virus by staying home unless going out for essential needs, such as getting food or drink, attending doctor's appointments, exercising, or going to work when it is not possible to work from home.

In response to clarification from the public, Windsor police say officers will not enter private areas, or arbitrarily stop drivers, to enforce the stay-at-home order.

"Windsor Police Service officers will not be entering dwellings, stopping vehicles, or stopping persons for the sole purpose of compliance checks," said Constable Talya Natyshak. "A person is not required to have proof from their employer that they are travelling to and from their place of employment. When an officer has reasonable grounds to believe a person has violated one of the orders, they may ask the person to identify themselves in order to issue a ticket or summons."

Natyshak added that anyone who fails or refuses to properly identify themselves could face a fine, or possibly be arrested and charged with obstructing a police officer.

Police are asking the public to help them identify those who are not in compliance with the Reopening Ontario Act when it comes to large gatherings.

"The government of Ontario introduced a minimum fine for people who organize gatherings at residential premises exceeding the capacity limits, with a minimum fine of $10,000, and a term of imprisonment no greater than one year," said Natyshak. "Those who attend such gatherings could face a minimum fine of $750."

Natyshak said the service's focus when it comes to COVID-19 is education and community engagement, but the stay-at-home order will be enforced if needed for those who repeatedly ignore public health guidelines.

The stay-at-home order is in effect until February 11, unless it is extended or amended by the provincial government.

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