$100 Fine Possible For Not Social Distancing At Stratford Parks

STRATFORD, CT — Stratford residents who stand too close to each other or congregate in groups larger than five people while visiting town parks could face a $100 fine, according to the mayor.

Police in Stratford have been directed to fine people who, after receiving a warning, fail to observe state-mandated social distancing directives in town recreation areas. Social distancing is intended to prevent transmission of the new coronavirus, also called COVID-19, which is rapidly spreading across the state.

As of Wednesday, there were 126 confirmed new coronavirus cases in Stratford, according to town officials, five of which had resulted in the death of the patient. Statewide as of Wednesday, there were 8,781 confirmed cases.

“Most residents who are using our recreational facilities are observing these guidelines that are meant to reduce the spread of COVID-19, but there are some who are failing to do so,” Mayor Laura Hoydick said in a news release. “We need to make it understood that we are very serious about enforcing the Governor’s Executive Orders at our public facilities, and those who disobey will be cited.”

The orders require residents to stay at least 6 feet apart from one another and not to gather with more than five people. Hoydick previously announced police would be enforcing the five-person rule after the directive was given in March.

Recreation areas include town parks, beaches, ponds, forests and other spaces used for recreational purposes, including playgrounds, ball fields and docks, as well as the adjacent parking facilities.

Anyone who observes groups violating the social distancing directives is asked to call Stratford police at 203-385-4100 or use the 411 app available at stratfordctpd.com.