KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Douglas County, Kansas, authorities stand ready to enforce Gov. Laura Kelly's stay-at-home order, the sheriff's office confirmed to 41 Action News Thursday.
According to a news release, law enforcement officers from several departments in the area will first ask residents to voluntarily comply with the order and social distancing guidelines.
If a resident refuses to comply or repeatedly violates the order, officers will enforce it.
The violation of an executive order is a Class A misdemeanor.
In addition to potentially being arrested and prosecuted, violators could face a fine up to $2,500 and one year in jail.
Residents could be subject to consequences for additional violations, including unlawful assembly, interference with law enforcement action and other public nuisance laws.
The sheriff's office said religious gatherings are allowed as long as they follow Gov. Laura Kelly's order. The stipulations include the service being held outdoors and observance of social distancing among non-family members.
A spokesperson for the office said it still recommends residents just stay home.
—
