Police to impose hefty fines on gatherings of 50 or more people

Police will be strictly enforcing orders made by the government during the current COVID-19 pandemic, which will include imposing big fines in some cases.

On Tuesday, March 17, the province declared a state of emergency during which most non-essential facilities have been instructed to close down until further notice, and all organized public events of over fifty people are prohibited.

Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) say a fine of $750 may be issued to anyone failing to comply with an order made during a declaration of emergency. Additionally, there’s a $1000 fine for obstructing anyone complying with an order made during a declared emergency.

“To protect yourself and your community during the COVID19 pandemic, please educate yourself on required closures as a result of the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act here,” OPP say.

OPP have asked residents to report any incidents of non-compliance at their website.