Stay-at-home enforcement won't include random traffic stops in York Region: police chief

'Enforcement will continue to be complaint driven and proactive, with the goal of gaining compliance,' says York Regional Police Chief Jim MacSween

Newmarkettoday.ca
April 19, 2021

York Regional Police will not be conducting random vehicle or individual stops under the increased police powers announced by the provincial government yesterday as part of its stepped-up restrictions during the third wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, according to Chief Jim MacSween.

The force will be "taking a balanced approach to enforcement, applying the order equitably and legally to ensure we continue to support public health measures while maintaining public trust," the chief said in a statement issued today.

"Enforcement will continue to be complaint driven and proactive, with the goal of gaining compliance," MacSween said. "Our actions will focus on those individuals who overtly put others in danger and citizens refusing to comply will be charged appropriately."

On Friday, April 16, the provincial government announced new restrictions for Ontarians and increased police powers under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act (EMCPA), allowing police to stop individuals and motorists who are not at home.

York Regional Police will continue to support York Region Public Health and regional and municipal enforcement officials to ensure the safety of officers and the community, MacSween added.