San Andreas, CA…From Sheriff Rick DiBasilio..”The Sheriff’s Office is encouraging all to wear masks while out in public and not able to social distance. Sheriff’s Office personnel will wear masks when; There is time to apply a mask when contacting someone in public. Entering a residence when on a call for service. Entering any business while in uniform. Effecting an arrest (when it is tactically practical).

The public needs to understand in our profession, things go downhill at a moment’s notice and deputies may not have the ability to put on a mask depending on the situation.

Businesses have the right to require and make rules for their place of business. The Sheriff’s Office will respond to businesses who request our assistance in removing any person who does not follow their rules and refuses to leave and that person can be subject to criminal trespassing if the property owner so chooses. Criminal trespassing is a separate violation under law. Also, please keep in mind that restaurants and other businesses can be shut down for not following the rules of wearing masks. This is a violation of the California Department of Health.

The Sheriff’s Office realizes there are many strong opinions when it comes to wearing or not wearing masks. We would like to encourage all to be respectful of others and remember that those working in your local businesses are merely doing what is asked of them by their employers. Please do not give them a hard time as they are working to provide for their families.

Let’s treat others with respect as everyone is navigating through this difficult time.