Deputies Won't Enforce Pritzker's Orders: Kane Co. Sheriff

ST. CHARLES, IL — Deputies of the Kane County Sheriff’s Office will not take any action against residents, businesses or organizations that violate Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s executive orders, unless they are told to do so by a judge, Sheriff Ron Hain announced Thursday. There is no “legislated law” that applies to those who violate Pritzker’s decrees that order residents to stay at home and some businesses to stay closed, Hain said in a news release.

“The U.S. Attorney General made a clear statement that the Constitution is not suspended in a state of emergency,” Hain said. “I was elected and took an oath, as all of our deputies have taken an oath, to protect the U.S. Constitution and the Constitution of the State of Illinois.”

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Though his agency will not be enforcing Pritzker's orders, Hain urged residents to remain cautious and “act in the best interest of your fellow citizens.”

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“This is not a time to test law enforcement or challenge the governor’s direction with blatant and egregious activity that may be harmful to society,” Hain said.

Kane County businesses that are state-licensed should speak to their attorneys before reopening, Hain recommended a day after Pritzker warned “there will be consequences” for businesses that reopen without state approval. Businesses should also look into how they could be held liable for any illnesses that occur as a result of them hosting events or gatherings, Hain said.

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Sheriffs are continuing their efforts to support homeless residents and quarantined seniors, while working with local business owners to ensure proper safety protocols are in place, Hain said.