With police being granted extra authority to enforce the provincewide stay-at-home order, Timmins Police will only use the "random stop" authority when there are reasonable grounds there's been a violation, according to corporate communications co-ordinator Marc Depatie.
When Ontario extended its stay-at-home and state of emergency yesterday, police officers and other provincial offences officers were given increased powers to enforce the emergency measures.
The main changes are police are allowed to ask people to provide their home address and the reason for not being at home and to randomly stop vehicles to ask why someone is leaving their home.
"Only in instances where reasonable grounds exist, and out of a clear necessity, will TPS officers make use of these new authorities. Laws are enacted to protect all citizens and in some cases to protect persons from their own misguided behaviours," said Depatie.
"That said, any and all violations of COVID protocols will be met with a firmer response in terms of the laying of formal charges under the applicable statutes.
"We recognize that these 'random stop' authorities exist. They will only be used by Timmins Police when and where reasonable grounds that an EMCPA violation is or has taken place."
Recently, there has been a surge in cases of the virus in the Porcupine Health Unit region. Since Monday, 71 new cases have been confirmed.
Provincially, a new daily record has been set several times this week.
"In light of the current distressing trends in COVID positivity, a firmer enforcement response is called for in order to protect residents of Timmins more effectively. The Timmins Police have a definite role to play and officers will be ramping up enforcement as it's deemed necessary," said Depatie.
"As they have throughout the pandemic, Timmins Police officers continue to use their authorities dispassionately and with discretion suited to the seriousness of the situation."
The fine for contravening the Emergency Management and Protection Act can be up to $750.
More information on the new measures that are in effect is available here.
