How Rockport Police are handling law enforcement during pandemic

Wed, 04/08/2020 - 3:45pm
    The Rockport Police Department said April 8 that it is open and servicing the Town of Rockport 24/7.
     
    “We have made some changes to our operational procedures during the current COVID- 19 pandemic,” said Camden-Rockport Police Chief Randy Gagne. “Our Administrative and Patrol offices are closed to the Public. Service may be obtained by calling the Knox County Reginal Communications Center at 911 (Emergency) 236-2027 or 594-5656 (Non-Emergency). There is also an Emergency phone mounted outside the Police Station to obtain service.
     
    He continued: “Our officers are handling most calls by phone. We do respond when situations warrant a police response. We will ask to meet complainants outside if possible and will maintain proper “Social Distancing”. Our Officers will arrive wearing a mask and other Personal Protective Equipment. This is for the safety of all involved.
     
    “We are still patrolling the streets of Rockport. We ask those of you traveling to please obey all regular traffic laws as you normally would. Voluntary compliance with all laws and orders is our goal. It greatly reduces our Officers exposures with the Public. We will stop those who are found in violation of the law but with your cooperation that won’t be necessary. We will NOT be stopping motorist just to check their ‘Essential’ reason for traveling.

    “I urge everyone to fully read the Executive Orders issued by Governor Mills. This will answer most questions you may have.

    “Please remember Social Distancing is required at a distance of six feet. Gatherings of more than 10 people are prohibited. Masks are suggested when out in public. Travel is limited for essential purposes only. Some of those essential purposes are for food, medicine, essential work, and exercise activities. Yes, you may drive to an area to exercise. During vehicle travel only members of the immediate household can travel together.

    “As of April 3, 2020, anyone coming into the State of Maine is mandated to self-monitor and quarantine for 14 days.

    “As of April 5, 2020 at noon, all lodging operations and accommodations must close. These include hotels, motels, bed and breakfast, inns, short-term rentals such as those available through VRBO, HomeAway, Airbnb, and other services, parks for recreational vehicles and campgrounds, all public and private camping facilities. Lodging may be provided to vulnerable populations including children in emergency placement, persons at risk of domestic violence, homeless persons as permitted by the State, and healthcare workers to name a few. Online reservations shall be suspended as well.

    “Again, I urge everyone to read the Governor’s orders. Please note that any violations of the Governor’s orders could result in jail time and a fine of up to $1,000. We hope to not go down that road with anyone.

    “I hope this brief note helps. The Rockport Police Department is here to serve you. We appreciate your cooperation during this trying time. We will get through this by working together.”

    Chief Randy Gagne Rockport Police Department