Morristown Woman Charged For Holding House Party Amid Coronavirus

MORRISTOWN, NJ - A 35-year-old Morristown woman was charged with violating of Governor Phil Murphy’s Emergency Orders attempting to stem the novel coronavirus, or COVID-19 outbreak, according to the office of the Attorney General.

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"Our police officers are working bravely and tirelessly every day to protect us during this health crisis. Regrettably, they are being called upon far too often to deal with people violating the emergency orders— or what is more egregious, people using the virus to spread fear or impede officers in their vital work,” said Attorney General Gurbir S. Grewal. “Staying home and maintaining social distance isn’t just the best advice to stay healthy, it’s the law. Make no mistake, we will do everything in our power to keep our residents and officers safe, and that means we won’t hesitate to file charges against violators.”

On Saturday, Anekia Dawkins was charged by Morristown Police with violating the executive orders for holding a party at her residence with more than 10 people, authorities said.

"Law enforcement and medical professionals are on the frontlines of this battle to protect the citizens of New Jersey from the COVID-19 virus, and we cannot stress enough how important it is that each person follow the guidelines set forth in the Executive Order,” said Colonel Patrick Callahan, Superintendent of the New Jersey State Police. “Because lives are at stake, enforcement action will be taken without hesitation against those who are blatantly placing the lives of others at risk.”

Violations of the emergency orders constitute a disorderly persons offense carrying a potential sentence of up to six months in jail and a fine of up to $1,000. However, violators can potentially face criminal charges including second, third, and fourth degree indictable offenses, officials said.

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