Sault Ste. Marie police say an investigation into an Easter gathering has led to charges under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act (EMCPA).
Police say the investigation started after they received a complaint of a gathering that took place on April 2, 2021.
As a result of the investigation, the organizer was identified and it was determined the gathering exceeded EMCPA restrictions.
Although Anishinabek Police Service identified two people charged in the Garden River First Nation incident, Sault Ste. Marie Police Service says it doesn't identify people charged with COVID-related infractions unless they’re also facing criminal charges.
“There’s increased anxiety in the community based on the emergency orders and what they’re allowed to do, what they’re not allowed to do. We understand people want to be able to socialize with friends and family, and it’s difficult to do during this time – and with that heightened anxiety, we don’t feel it’s prudent to be releasing the names of individuals,” said Louttit.
“We’re doing our best to enforce these restrictions. At the same time, officers are showing some discretion when it comes to issuing these fines as they would with any criminal offence, and our number one goal is public safety, and we feel we’re not releasing those names in the best interest of public safety.”
Police Chief Hugh Stevenson notice regarding EMCPA violations:
“This community has fared quite well throughout the COVID-19 pandemic and I know we all want to keep it that way so we’re able to once again visit with friends and family. In order to do our part as your Police Service, we will thoroughly investigate any complaint of EMCPA violations. As in this case, and others, anyone found to be violating the EMCPA will be fined accordingly.”
Police remind the public that anyone who fails to comply with an order made during a declared emergency could face a minimum fine of $750.