Louisiana Governor John Bel Edwards has issued measures over the last month to help slow the spread of COVID-19, or coronavirus, in our state. Those measures include closing educational facilities, closing casinos, shutting down non-essential businesses, and issuing a stay-at-home order.

Now in Shreveport, authorities are looking to stop those actions.

Shreveport Police Chief Ben Raymond announced this afternoon that his department will take criminal action against business owners and individuals who do not comply with the Governor's "stay at home" order. Raymond said

"Effective immediately, any business or gathering which has previously been warned that they are operating in violation of the Governor's Emergency Proclamation, will be issued a misdemeanor summons. Punishable by jail time, and a fine."

Raymond further explained that some businesses or events that are considered "egregious" may not receive a warning, and will be cited immediately.

During the press conference Raymond also singled out citizens riding public transit, implying that they would also be subjected to jail time and fines.

MORE TO EXPLORE: See the the COVID-19 stimulus bill broken down by the numbers

 

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