CHARLOTTETOWN, P.E.I. — Charlottetown Police Services received four complaints in January related to public health rules around COVID-19.
Three of the calls were mask-related while the other one dealt with COVID capacity issues.
However, no charges were laid in any of the cases.
“We have not seen any notable increase in these types of calls,’’ said Deputy Police Chief Brad MacConnell. “All (four) calls were investigated, and no charges were laid.’’
MacConnell said the circumstances differed in all of the incidents but each one lacked the necessary grounds to lay charges.
“We enjoy a high level of compliance here in P.E.I. and we take all reports of non-compliance very seriously.’’
In November, Police Chief Paul Smith said his department wouldn’t be getting involved in enforcement when it comes to the COVID-19 pandemic, explaining to one of council’s standing committees that it falls under provincial jurisdiction.
Enforcement has, for the most part, fallen to provincial conservation officers.
However, Smith said Charlottetown Police Services would render assistance if asked.
The wearing of non-medical masks is mandatory in all public places.
People are asked to call 1-800-958-6400 if they have any concerns that someone is not following the self-isolation or work-isolation rules or have general questions about COVID-19.
Dave Stewart is The Guardian's municipal reporter.
