Ripon PD Statement On Governor’s Face Covering Mandate And Enforcement
1 August 2020 News
In response to the recent mandate issued by Governor Evers concerning wearing face masks in our state, the City of Ripon Police Department met this morning with representatives from the Fond du Lac County Health Department, legal advisors, as well as leaders of other law enforcement agencies in Fond du Lac County, to try and establish some consistency on the enforcement of this mandate. Questions concerning the enforcement of the mandate, the legality, and how it will be enforced were all discussed.
The mandate, as issued, has issued instructions on the wearing of masks at certain locations, but also contains several exceptions to the rule. While mask coverings are required, the personal health, religious, mental health, sensory sensitivity, or activity engaging in at the time, may prevent some people from wearing face masks, making enforcement of this issue extremely difficult.
RPD certainly realizes the important health considerations concern COVID and its spread. We certainly believe that wearing of facemasks is an important tool to take reasonable steps to help control this issue. Although we appreciate the state wide mandate, we also believe that there is some need for personal responsibility to act accordingly, and make the right individual decision for themselves.
RPD has been informed that the Fond du Lac County Health department will be addressing specific complaints concerning individuals not wearing masks when others believe they are in violation of the governor’s order. They can be contacted at 920-929-3085 ext#6. Calls to RPD communications center will be screened by communications members, and if appropriate, directed to the Health Department for their follow up.
RPD Officers will not be responding to individual complaints concerning the wearing or not wearing of masks by individuals.
This issue has created a lot of emotional response, from both sides. We hope that cooler heads prevail and disagreements on this issue can be resolved with communication, education, and information. Complaints that involve disorderly conduct, failure to leave a private location or property, or trespassing will be enforced.
Chief William Wallner
City of Ripon PD
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