Action possible for one Covid breach report

But just one may be taken any further.

Bailiwick Law Enforcement helps enforce Public Health legislation around Covid-19 emergency regulations and the lockdown.

‘A total of 34 alleged Covid-19 lockdown restriction breach calls were made to JESCC, of which 25 were attended by police,’ said a Bailiwick Law Enforcement spokesman.

‘The other nine were assessed before officers were dispatched and did not warrant action. This happens in cases where, for example, the law has been misinterpreted by the caller.’

Of the 25 incidents officers did attend,10 found no trace of a breach on arrival, 14 found no breach had been made, however the call was made with good intent, and eight saw officers give firm words of advice.

One was given a final warning, while the other case is being reviewed to see if further action was needed.

‘When officers are dealing with members of the public under the national Covid enforcement strategy, they try to engage, then explain, then encourage, and then enforce,’ the spokesman said.

‘This is applied to dealing with alleged breaches. Police will normally give words of advice where a breach cannot be clearly identified or proven.

‘A final warning will be issued and recorded where a breach has been identified, but the person has not previously been spoken to by police and the breach is not considered serious.

‘A prosecution will be initiated for serious or sustained breaches that are identified and there is evidence to prove an offence.

‘This two-step approach of a final warning, followed by a prosecution, is in accordance with national guidance and supported by the law officers, who review each identified breach offence during the investigation process.’

Under the restrictions, islanders should not be leaving their home unless their journey is essential or they are undertaking their two hours of exercise. It is advised that masks be worn whenever a person is outside their home, unless they are in a car.

Mandatory mask wearing in specific indoor public spaces was introduced yesterday for all but those shown to be exempt.