Sumter law enforcement urges public to abide by social distancing orders

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Social distancing has become a major part of reducing the spread of COVID-19. In the U.S., several states have made executive orders supporting social distancing efforts.

Throughout March, Gov. Henry McMaster issued several executive orders reducing the size of group gatherings with each order. The last executive order regarding group sizes was left at no more than three in a public gathering.

With an executive order in place, local, state and federal officials have the ability to punish those who defy the executive order with a misdemeanor, which is up to a $100 fine or 30 days in jail.

Sumter's local law enforcement has been encouraging social distancing rather than enforcing it. The Sumter Police Department said community members in the city have understood the importance of not gathering in large groups during this pandemic.

"Basically, we're advising residents of the expectation and importance of staying 6 feet apart or congregating in groups of no more than three. We can only ask that people be aware and try to follow the advice of our local, state and federal leaders," said Tonyia McGirt, public information officer for the police department. "The order says we can take whatever action is appropriate, but right now, we haven't had any issues where we've had a problem with dispersing groups."

McGirt said city officers will respond to situations where people are seeing large groups of people, but they will focus on encouraging the group about the importance of social distancing to reduce the spread of COVID-19. However, if the situation becomes serious, they will take the appropriate actions.

When officers do come in contact with people during incidents like this, or even traffic stops and other encounters, they are taking extra precautions for not only the safety of the public, but also for their safety.

"Our officers do have personal protective gear and have been instructed on their use," McGirt said.

Deputy Adrienne Sarvis, public information officer for the Sumter County Sheriff's Office, also said the sheriff's office is providing protective gear for its deputies.

"Deputies have disposable gloves and have been issued N-95 masks for traffic stops and/or interactions with the public," Sarvis said. "Deputies are also keeping hand sanitizer in their vehicles in case they are unable to put on gloves in urgent situations."

The sheriff's office is also working to speak with residents about the importance of social distancing.

Sarvis said unless it's deemed necessary, deputies are instructed to speak with residents outside of a residence instead of going into a home.

The sheriff's office is also working to document all calls it receives about large group gatherings rather than write an incident report, as reports are written for arrests or investigations.

"We work to disperse groups peacefully and have not met resistance when addressing this executive order from the governor," Sarvis said. "We write reports for incidents that result in arrest or require further investigation. If everyone leaves the area when requested, a report is not required. However, a record of the call is kept with dispatch, as are all calls."