Publish Date: Dec 31, 2020
Incident Date: Dec 27, 2020
Location: LOBSINGER LINE, WOOLWICH, ON Canada
On December 30, 2020, Waterloo Regional Police, in consultation with Region of Waterloo Public Health, issued a charge under the ROA to members of a church located on Lobsinger Line in Woolwich Township. On December 27, 2020, Waterloo Regional Police responded to the church located on Lobsinger Line in Woolwich Township and observed breaches of the province-wide shutdown restrictions.
On December 26, 2020, the Province placed the Region of Waterloo in shutdown, limiting weddings, funerals and other religious services, rites, or ceremonies where physical distancing can be maintained to 10 people indoors and 10 people outdoors.
As we continue to witness a rise in COVID-19 cases globally, nationally, and locally, the Waterloo Regional Police Service reminds residents to stay home and only leave for essential reasons. We understand that many people have had to make adjustments to the way they live and interact. However, we continue to encourage everyone to practice physical distancing and use a face covering when 2 meters cannot be maintained.
To help slow the spread of COVID-19 this holiday season and throughout the shutdown period, stay home as much as possible. Only gather with those in your household and stay connected with friends and family virtually.
The charged members were issued Part III Summons, Contrary to section 10.1 of the Reopening Ontario (A Flexible Response to COVID-19) Act, for a gathering at another prescribed premises, being a place of worship and the number of people in attendance exceeded the number permitted per a continued section 7.0.2 order of the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act.