No charges for Linn County residents who violate freeze, sheriff says

Sheriff Jim Yon said they do want residents to follow current health guidelines, and their focus will be on education.

In coos county.

The linn county sheriff's office says they will*not take an aggressive approach in enforcing the governor's state- wide two week pause.

We begin our team coverage tonight... with kezi nine news reporter connor mccarthy -- live in albany to tell us how they came to the decision.

Matt that his office will continue with an educational approach.

He says many businesses are hanging on by a threat... and people are struggling because they feel cut off and alone.

This is not the time to make arrests.

The sheriff says they have to draw the line when it comes to decisions related to individual residences, religion, or businesses.

He says if he wants to go into a house and start making arrests he would first need a warrant from a judge.

The sheriff says he does want the public to follow health guidelines to keep others safe from the virus enforcement isn't the answer.

Sheriff jim yon/ linn county sheriff's office: "we want people to be safe, we want people to be wearing masks to take the proper precautions, if you're afraid and don't want to go out, than don't go out.

Stay home, that's your right to do that."

Sheriff yon says if his office gets a complaint about a social gathering for example& deputies will go and talk to the people involved but they will not arrest anyone or write citations.

Matt of commissioners also announced they will not aggressively enforce the two week pause.

They say they can't imagine arresting people for getting together on thanksgiving.

I did reach out to the governor's office -- but haven't heard back.

Live in albany connor mccarthy kezi nine news.

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