Three people who were having a party at their home with friends at the weekend were among the first people to be reported by Cumbria Police for disregarding new government measures restricting the public’s movement to combat coronavirus.
As well as the house party trio in Carlisle on Saturday night, a 24-year-old man from Whitehaven was also reported after he was repeatedly seen out in the town centre earlier in the day, again going against the Covid-19 restrictions of being in a public area without lawful reason.
Police say officers had explained the situation to him numerous times but that he ignored this. He was spotted out again on Sunday morning and was returned him home by officers who then reported him for the offence.
New police powers brought in last Thursday mean that anyone who continues to refuse to comply with stay-at-home orders and does not avoid non-essential travel can be arrested or fined £60 – reduced to £30 if paid within 14 days. However, the Home Office says officers “will always apply their common sense and discretion” in the first instance.
Temporary Chief Superintendent Rob O’Connor said: “This weekend we have seen the residents of Cumbria and tourists complying with the restrictions, with the Lake District and town centres being extremely quiet.
“Officers are aware that the overwhelming majority of our communities are abiding by the rules in order to help us all protect the NHS and the most vulnerable people in society. Our plea to the public is to continue to listen to the guidance given to you and we will get through this together.”
