Village Police Won’t Enforce Thanksgiving Dinner Limits
Ever since Governor Andrew Cuomo issued his Executive Order last week that limits private gatherings, including Thanksgiving Dinners to 10 people or less, many throughout the area have wondered if local police agencies plan to enforce the order. The answer is apparently no.
That doesn’t mean they endorse large gatherings either. The Eastwick Press asked Hoosick Falls Police Chief Bob Ashe about enforcement and he told us “I believe that families are responsible for themselves and will use common sense and care, making sure all are protected.” The chief also said “I don’t believe they need government at their kitchen table.”
That is a sentiment also expressed by Rensselaer County Sheriff Pat Russo who said logistically, it just doesn’t work. “Rensselaer County consists of 667 square miles, and is usually patrolled by two or three deputies per shift,” Sheriff Patrick Russo stated. “In the event a call comes in to check on a residence, if the deputies aren’t tied up on another call or an arrest, obtaining a search warrant to enter the home could take several hours. We need to prioritize our calls and don’t have the time to spend those hours waiting.” Sheriff Russo added.
The Rensselaer County Sheriff’s Office encourages our residents to use common sense and always follow best practices during these uncertain times; using your best judgement, wearing masks when you’re not able to social distance and washing hands frequently are just some of the ways to keep your family safe during the holiday season.
Both Sheriff Russo, Chief Ashe and their departments wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving!