Police warn of lockdown fines
Northumbria Police has warned people who breach the North East’s new restrictions that they could face fines as the force calls for everyone to play their part in keeping communities safe.
The North East’s new COVID-19 regulations came into effect on Friday, in an effort to tackle the rising numbers of coronavirus cases in the region.
The restrictions include a ban on residents socialising with other people outside their own households in private homes and gardens.
They cover Sunderland, South Tyneside, North Tyneside, Newcastle, Gateshead, County Durham and Northumberland.
In an effort to enforce the measures, Northumbria Police has said it will engage with the public on daily patrols and respond to reports of breaches ‘where it is proportionate to do so.’
Assistant Chief Constable Neil Hutchison said: “These local restrictions are being introduced in addition to the nationwide rules that came into place on Monday.
“It is extremely important that everyone understands them and shows personal responsibility in following the restrictions – we all have a part to play in keeping each other safe.
“However, as we have previously made clear, where it is proportionate for us to do so we will respond to people breaking the rules, with any reports we receive assessed to determine the most appropriate course of action.
“We will look to engage with people in the first instance, explaining the restrictions and encouraging them to follow the regulations.
"However, where necessary, we will take enforcement action.”
Action which can be taken by the police and local authority against those who break the regulations includes asking people to disperse and issuing fixed penalty notices starting at £100.
People aged 18 or over will be able to be fined £100 for the first offence, lowered to £50 if paid within 14 days, or £200 for the second offence, then doubling for each further offence up to a maximum of £3,200.
The force is asking anyone reporting breaches of the coronavirus legislation to where possible do so through our website. Alternatively, call 101. People should not contact police to ask questions about the restrictions.