People breaking social distancing and self isolation guidelines will be given fines and possibly jail time, warn police, who said people need take COVID-19 health warnings seriously.
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Chifley Police District's highest ranking officer, Supt Peter O'Brien said there will be swift and certain penalties for people who don't obey the law, amidst the growing Coronavirus pandemic.
Supt O'Brien said Chifley Police had already received reports via Crime Stoppers form people failing to observe self isolation, which police have acted on.
"People have been told, and rightly so, if they know of someone flouting the rules, to get in contact with Crime Stoppers, for police to investigate," he said.
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He confirmed Crime Stoppers had received calls from people in Bathurst, about people who should be self isolating and aren't, as well as offences relevant to the situation.
"We've gotten the information, done own own checks and balances and where warranted investigated and tasked police to the complaint.
"So far where complaints have been made, the information has been fairly reliable."
Supt O'Brien said police are sending the message police were taking all precautions extremely seriously.
"The community need to be fair dinkum about this."
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He said police had already issued official warnings to some flouting the rules in Bathurst, but said once warned, re-offenders should not expect any leniency.
"It's not a case of three strikes and you're out. If you've been warned and continue to flout the rules, you'll be fined."
As a result of the current circumstances he said there will be increased police patrols in the community and random checks based on tipoffs to Crime Stoppers.
Supt O'Brien said the circumstances call for strong action - and police stand ready to respond.
He said the message was clear, and police will use their powers to ensure compliance.
"No more than one person should occupy a two by two metre area. Those who have been directed to self-isolate, must do so."
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