How Crystal Police Enforces Stay-At-Home Order
Getting arrested or ticketed in violation of Governor Tim Walz’s stay-at-home order is a concern among local residents.
However, Crystal Deputy Police Chief Brian Hubbard explained that there’s no desire to arrest or ticket anyone.
“This really isn’t a law enforcement issue, as much as it’s a public health issue,” said Hubbard. “We are not aggressively enforcing this law. If we get a phone call of a group that’s gathering, we have public health obligations to say you need to move along and you need to not gather like this.”
Hubbard said it’s important to keep in mind the orders are intended to keep us all safe and healthy for a longer period of time.
Police say you should not call 911 if you see a large group congregating. If you feel the need to contact police due to a large gathering, call the non-emergency number for your local police department.
“I don’t believe officers in any jurisdiction will randomly stop cars or stop people who are out walking around. That’s one of the things that are allowed,” Hubbard explained. “We want people to get out and get exercise.”
Hubbard added that there is no documentation needed or required from an employer deeming a person is an essential worker.
“We’re just asking people do the essential things, essential functions that you need to do and then other than that, stay home, stay in close proximity to your family, exercise outside of a good distance,” Hubbard said.
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If you have more questions regarding what you can and can’t do, contact your local police station.
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