The West Kelowna and Kelowna RCMP will be increasing patrols at Big White after resort management called for help to deal with the lack of compliance with public health orders in the area.
Big White is part of the Kelowna rural jurisdiction, which is the responsibility of the West Kelowna RCMP. The West Kelowna detachment responds to complaints and conducts investigations at the resort municipality as required.
In a Wednesday news release, the RCMP stated additional patrols are often assigned to the area during winter weekends and special events. The Capital News previously reported the RCMP does not have an officer permanently stationed on the mountain.
Earlier today, Big White VP Michael Ballingall told the Capital News he hoped for more RCMP enforcement. The Resort is in the jurisdiction of the @KelownaRCMP, which said it does not have an officer permanently assigned to the resort of Big White.
— Michael Rodriguez (@MichaelRdrguez) December 16, 2020
READ MORE: RCMP won’t send additional resources to Big White, despite requests
However, given the increase in COVID-19 cases at Big White this week, the detachment is changing its approach and sending resources to the area.
“Due to concerns that have been brought to us by the community, we will be increasing our patrols and police presence in the area,” said Insp. Kent Lowe of the Kelowna RCMP. “Our officers will be there to ensure public safety and will be taking necessary enforcement action.”
The RCMP reminded the public that contravening provincial public health orders is a ticketable offence. Owners or organizers of events can face fines of $2,300, while those who fail to wear a face-covering in indoor public spaces, do not comply with directions of an enforcement officer, or become abusive or belligerent can be fined $230.
“There is a unique situation occurring in the community of Big White. The RCMP will be there to assist the community in containing that situation and maintaining public safety,” said the Kelowna Regional Detachment’s top cop Supt. Kara Triance. “While we certainly can, and will enforce the provisions available to us under the COVID Related Measures Act, we continue to encourage everyone to voluntarily comply with the provincial health orders, so enforcement is not required.”
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Do you have something to add to this story, or something else we should report on? Email: michael.rodriguez@kelownacapnews.com
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