Sarnia Police Service officials allege: On March 31, 2020, Sarnia by-law officers acted on complaints regarding a 72-year-old man who had returned from out of country and was failing to self-quarantine.
At this time by-law officers attended the man’s residence and warned him that he must comply with the act or face being charged under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act.
On April 6, 2020, the City of Sarnia in cooperation with the Sarnia Police Service COVID-19 hotline received additional information that the man was still not in compliance with the 14-day quarantine and still leaving his residence.
On April 6, 2020, officers from the Sarnia Police Service COPPS Unit attended the residence of the man in question to speak to him.
When they arrived the man was not present but after a period of time waiting for the individual he returned home.
At this time the man was issued a ticket for “Failing to comply with order made during a declared emergency”. The ticket carried a fine of $750 and once the victim surcharge was added the total cost of the fine was $880.
As society continues to grapple with this disease it is imperative that everyone does their part to ensure that they do not spread or catch the disease.
COVID-19 does not discriminate, be it by race, colour, creed, or economics.
Until science and the medical world are able to control its spread we must all do our part and self-isolate.
The Sarnia Police Service along with Sarnia By-Law Officers will continue with their efforts to educate but if people refuse to comply charges will be laid.
The COVID-19 Hotline can be reached at 1-877-4-SARNIA (1-877-472-7642).
Members of the public can report their concerns, from within Sarnia, by email to covid@sarnia.ca
