Cleveland Police working with government to enforce new coronavirus lockdown rules in Hartlepool

The chief of Cleveland Police says the force is working with the government to enforce new lockdown measures while still serving communities in Hartlepool.
By Mark Payne
Published 24th Mar 2020, 11:14 BST
Updated 24th Mar 2020, 15:51 BST
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Chief Constable Richard Lewis said it is more important than ever that residents pull together and follow the official advice in these ‘unprecedented’ times.

He spoke after Prime Minister Boris Johnson put the nation on lockdown telling people they must stay at home and only go out for very limited reasons to try to get on top of the coronavirus pandemic.

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Police will have powers to enforce the tough new rules, including fining those who don’t comply and dispersing gatherings.

Cleveland Police Chief Constable Richard LewisCleveland Police Chief Constable Richard Lewis
Cleveland Police Chief Constable Richard Lewis

Chief Constable Lewis said: “With Coronavirus now impacting on almost every area of life, it’s more important than ever that we are looking out for each other and the most vulnerable in our communities.

“The new measures announced by the Government are sensible, based on scientific evidence and give people clarity on the exact steps they must take to stop the rapid transmission of this disease.

“The majority of people are already making real sacrifices to save lives and we urge everyone to follow the advice that is designed to keep us all safe.

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“We are working with the government and other agencies to consider how these new rules can be most effectively enforced.

“This is a rapidly developing situation and Cleveland Police is committed to doing everything it can to continue providing the level of service the public would expect during the Covid-19 outbreak.”

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A multi-agency Strategic Coordinating Group, chaired by the Chief Constable and including senior officials from partner agencies, is meeting regularly to coordinate a complex response across Hartlepool, Stockton, Redcar and Cleveland and Middlesborough

Chief Constable Lewis added: “This is an unsettling time and I want to reassure residents that our NHS, councils, emergency services and other partners are working together closely to ensure services continue to run, communities and businesses are supported and lives are saved.

“This is an unprecedented time for everyone, and we would ask that you help us – and yourself – by following all the advice from Public Health England.”