Durham Regional Police Service (DRPS) latest statistics reveal that it receives, on average, more than 10 calls a day reporting non-compliance of Covid-19 regulations.
“Since March, there have been approximately 3,677 calls for non-compliance issues related to Covid-19 (gatherings, non-compliant businesses etc.),” says the latest DRPS covid update.
This works out to some 350 calls a month or 11.6 calls a day.
Since the pandemic began in March, DRPS said it has issued 16 tickets and laid 11 charges under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act (EMCPA); 13 tickets and eight charges under the Reopening Ontario Act (ROA); and five tickets under the Quarantine Act.
Under Ontario’s new stay-at-home order, police do not have the authority to enter a dwelling or stop a vehicle for the singular purpose of checking compliance. The DRPS will continue enforcing non-compliance in partnership with Durham Public Health and local by-law, issuing tickets when necessary. Those found in violation could face a fine, the update said.
Skating Party
On Sunday, January 10, Central West Division officers investigated a complaint about a gathering at a Whitby residence. A group of 12 children and coaches were using a backyard ice rink with parents gathering to watch. Parties on scene were not engaging in social distancing and exceeded the outdoor limit of 10 people, at the time. The homeowner has received summons.
The outdoor limit has now changed to five people and masks are required when distancing is not possible with the new regulations recently announced.
DRPS said citizens can report non-compliant residents and businesses on www.drps.ca under Online Services – Community Concerns. As a secondary option, citizens can contact the DRPS non-emergency line at 1-888-579-1520.
13 of 15 cases recovered
Following the last update on December 14, three more DRPS members have tested positive for Covid-19, bringing the total number to 15; 13 have since recovered.
DRPS officers continue to patrol communities to keep all safe and respond to emergencies as they arise.
Why is snowmobiling being closed. We payed really good money for are passed an now again we loose. So now well over 500 of uses want are money back plus . If we dont get are money back there will be law suits…