Parkes police have called on the community to do their bit to help slow the spread of the coronavirus.
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Officer in charge of Parkes Police Chief Inspector Dave Cooper said while police had powers to help enforce social distancing, the community still needed to do its bit to stop the spread.
"COVID-19 is obviously a big thing we are all dealing with across Australia and across the world," Chief Inspector Cooper said.
"The fact of the matter is, it is here and we have to respond in an appropriate way.
"The only way we will deal with this is if the community takes control and does their bit to stop the spread.
"Don't be complacent, we are all at risk if we don't each do our own bit.
"The virus doesn't move, we move the virus.
"So, our call is for the community to take control, be mindful of social distancing, wash your hands and only do the things in the community that you really need to do. Listen to the Government warnings and advice."
Chief Inspector Cooper said stiff penalties would apply for those breaking self-isolation guidelines.
"The Commissioner of Police has given us provisions to issue $1000 tickets, individual tickets, for people who disregard the rules," he said.
"It's not something we want to do, we would much rather people take control of this themselves, because we as a community, are the only ones who can change it.
"There are people in the community who are scared the virus may be transferred, so they are calling the police and we are doing everything we can to engage with the community to point them in the right direction."
Chief Inspector Cooper said despite the pandemic, police were still very focused on "normal business".
"I have been in daily contact with Parkes Shire Council and NSW Health and we stand ready to respond and deal with the issues as they arise," he said.
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