Dog walker and phone football watchers fined for Covid breaches in Cannock
A man who walked his dog despite testing positive for Covid-19 is among 15 people fined for lockdown breaches in one week across the Cannock Chase district.
Police handed out the fines across the area between January 18 to January 24 to people caught flouting the rules.
A person who was found working in a takeaway, despite the fact they should have been self-isolating, was also fined by officers in the area.
Chief Inspector Becky Hyde, of Cannock Neighbourhood Policing Team (NPT), said: "I would like to thank the communities of Cannock and Hednesford for continuing to do their very best to stick to the rules to protect themselves and others from this devastating disease.
"It is unfortunate that the message is still not getting through to some individuals who continue to bend and even break the rules despite the ongoing seriousness of the situation across the district.
"Officers are continuing to carry out patrols to engage, encourage and explain the rules to anyone we feel is pushing the boundaries and will enforce where necessary."
Two men from different households were fined after they were discovered by the force watching football on a mobile phone in a car.
And a group of more than three people from different households who had met up to go shopping together were among the others fined.
Officers urged people to stay at home, maintain social distancing and only make essential journeys.
Councillor Alan Pearson, portfolio leader for crime and partnerships at Cannock Chase District Council, said "We are continuing to work with partner agencies to ensure that we’re supporting the residents and businesses across the district, during this unprecedented situation.
"The council will not hesitate to take enforcement action against irresponsible individuals or businesses where we find lockdown rules being ignored."
Councillor Christine Martin, portfolio leader for health and wellbeing at the authority, added: "We recognise the sacrifices that both people and businesses are having to make at this very difficult time, but the lockdown is designed to protect us all and keep our communities safe."
To report any concerns relating to Covid-19, message Staffordshire Police on Facebook or Twitter or call 101.
