No fines yet by Leicestershire police

No fixed penalty notices to date have been issued by the force to people flouting social distancing rules.

It's been more than a week since the Government granted new powers to police forces across the country to help try and stop the spread of Covid-19.

It's means officers are able to disperse anyone not adhering to social distancing guidelines and issue a fixed penalty notice to anyone who does not co-operate.

“Our approach has very much been around engage, explain and encourage members of the public to be following the Government guidance. We only want to be enforcing when absolutely necessary,” explains Assistant Chief Constable Julia Debenham.

“From speaking to teams across Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland, the response on the ground has been very positive. Communities understand why it’s important to adhere to social distancing.

ACC Debenham added: “I’d like to say a big thanks to you – the public – because you’ve listened to us and are helping us to help our communities.

“We are carrying on as normal, investigating crimes and patrolling the streets, keeping you safe. The streets might be emptier, but we are still there, protecting you.

“We’re all in this together and need to help each other. The national guidance is still to stay at home if you can and it’s a message that I and my colleagues are continuing to support.”