Pinellas Sheriff Warns of Fines if Bars Don't Enforce COVID Rules

CLEARWATER -- Pinellas County officials, incuding the sheriff, warned that the county is "taking its foot off the gas" when it comes to following COVID restrictions, especially at bars and restaurants.

Sheriff Bob Gualtieri said the county will wind up in a "bad place" this winter if things don't change.

Gualtieri said his deputies did spot checks of bars and restaurants from one end of the county to the other, and found many businesses where servers and customers were not wearing masks. They also found tables not spaced six feet apart. Groups that didn't come in together are required to maintain social distancing.

Deputies also found people on the dance floors and standing up at bars, both of which are prohibited.

Gualtieri says some don't think the rules apply since Governor DeSantis voided fines in local mask ordinances. But Gualtieri says the governor didn't take away fines for businesses.

He says his deputies will be posting signs reminding establishments of the rules, and make one more sweep of the county. Fines are only on the table for establishments that absolutely refuse to comply.

Photo: Getty Images


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