Police focus in the region will now switch to groups of three or more and public gatherings, says the force’s top officer CC Shaun Sawyer.
The easing of Covid-related restrictions was always going to be a challenge for policing, said the chief constable, and ’engagement and education’ with the public will be key.
’We will adapt to the new terms of the regulations and will positively engage with the public as we have been doing for the past two months,’ he said.
’The latest amendments means that we have no role in enforcing social distancing, wearing of masks or distance of travel as the Government have made it clear that there are no longer restrictions on how far people can travel to exercise or for open air recreation.
’There remains a role for the police and our Covid-focus will now turn towards groups of three or more people outside of one household, and public gatherings, as these are not lawful under the amended regulations which took effect yesterday.
’Where the evidence is clear and as a last resort, officers will use enforcement options that are available to them.’
CC Sawyer said that as the lockdown begins to life, personal responsibility comes to the fore.
’We are continuing to ask the public to ‘Think Twice’ when they leave the house; is it safe and is it fair?
’My message to those people considering travel into Devon and Cornwall would be that we would love to welcome you back but ask that you wait just a little longer. Cafés and restaurants remain closed, there are a lack of open facilities and we do not have lifeguards on all our beaches. There has been a national collective effort to protect all communities and we are need this national effort to continue for a little bit longer.
’For residents of Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, we want you to be able to enjoy the extra independence you have been given in relation to exercise and open air recreation, but we want you to do so safely. It’s important that we all remember that our actions count and can affect others.
’Feedback from within communities across Devon and Cornwall is that they would prefer each other to stay local.
’Fairness will weigh heavily and people will question the actions of others, which is why I will ask you all to think twice about your own actions.
’It is important we remember why we are all being asked to do this, which is to save lives.’