Man charged with failing to comply with COVID 19 health directions

A 41-year-old man has been arrested and charged for failing to comply with COVID-19 health directions in the ACT.

Police attended a location in Parkes, ACT about 11.30am yesterday (Thursday, 16 July 2020). The man is alleged to have travelled to the ACT from Victoria on Wednesday, 15 July 2020 and did not have an exemption from the ACT Chief Health Officer to enter the ACT.

He has been charged for failing to comply with a Public Health Direction under Section 120(4) of the Public Health Act 1997. ACT Policing has made several arrests to ensure community safety during the COVID-19 response and this is the first offence under the Public Health Act 1997.

Detective Superintendent Jason Kennedy, Commander of the ACT Policing COVID-19 Taskforce, said the man was cooperative when taken into custody.

“We take the safety of the Canberra community seriously, especially those who may be at higher risk of health complications,” Detective Superintendent Kennedy said.

“ACT Policing had serious concerns about the significant health risks this particular individual posed to our community by not complying with the health directions.

“ACT Policing will continue to take all necessary action to prevent the spread of COVID-19.”

The man is expected to appear before the ACT Magistrates Court this afternoon. Bail will be opposed.

Media enquiries

Police Media — (02) 5126 9070, act-police-media@afp.gov.au