Maddox: It’s a ‘Damn Shame’ TPD Must Enforce COVID-19 Restrictions
Mayor Walt Maddox says the Tuscaloosa Police and Fire Departments will actively enforce City and State ordinances currently in place to prevent the spread of the novel Coronavirus.
Maddox's announcement came as a response to a tweet from University of Alabama Athletics Director Greg Byrne. Byrne's tweet showed college students congregating outside of Gallette's without face masks and social distancing.
"Wearing a mask and practicing social distancing is not much to ask for to protect yourself, your family, your friends, [DCH Health System], and the jobs of thousands of people," Maddox said.
The Tuscaloosa Police Department and Tuscaloosa Fire and Rescue Service will now be asked to come in early and assist the University of Alabama Police Department in enforcing COVID-19 ordinances.
Maddox said it is a "damn shame" that these employees are being stretched thin across the City in an effort to force others to practice personal responsibility.
Maddox had stated earlier this month that local officials would be stepping up their enforcement of the state's "Safer at Home" order; however, no citations were issued that weekend.