More than 110 charged for violating lockdown

Toronto officials say they have laid 112 charges since Ontario launched its pandemic-related stay-at-home order last week.

They add that enforcement will continue to be a top priority.

The charges, laid by Toronto police and bylaw officers, included at least 50 resulting from illegal gatherings, while 16 came under the Reopening Ontario Act.

Toronto police also laid 20 charges under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act after a downtown anti-lockdown protest last weekend. Four criminal charges were also issued as a result.

Police charges account for 82 of the 112 charges issued.

Meanwhile, notices were given to several retailers, personal services, an automobile detailing service, beauty supply and nail salons, and a hookah lounge — for a total of 57 since the order began.

Notices are issued separately from charges.

“The enforcement of public health related regulations continues to be a top priority for the City of Toronto, since the outset of COVID-19,” said Toronto fire Chief Matthew Pegg at the City’s briefing on Jan. 21. Pegg leads the City’s emergency operations.

“Our co-ordinated enforcement teams have been working diligently to enforce the regulations relating to COVID-19,” he added.

Toronto police, Municipal Licensing and Standards and Toronto Public Health have reported 353 complaints related to non-essential businesses and illegal gatherings this week.

“The City expects all businesses to comply with the Lockdown Regulation. Toronto is at a critical point right now in its fight to stop the spread of COVID-19. Restrictive measures are in place and residents and businesses are all expected to comply,” they told the Star.