This is a message from Sheriff Lee Cone:
I would like to thank everyone at this point in our journey. Thank you for being compliant and for the outpouring of support! The Governor has issued several new executive orders which supersedes any local guidelines and ordinances previously put in place by the City and County Government.
The curfew was removed, however a shelter in place order was given. The shelter in place orders means you are to stay home 24 hours a day 7 days a week until Monday April 13th at 12 pm. If you have necessary travel requirements, you are not restricted. However unnecessary movement is. We have issued several guidance documents to explain this in detail. This can be found at https://benhillcountyema.com. If you must travel, you must practice social distancing. This is not to be confused with a "social gathering" this plainly means physical distancing between you and others.
Recreation is not prohibited, however you must use judgement and understand the physical distancing guidelines applied to all activity, except at home with your family, unless a family member is sick or has been exposed to COVID-19. In this case physical distancing should be practiced at home as well.
Please remember, practicing social/physical distancing is to lower the risk and spread of the COVID-19 virus. We have so many mixed emotions going on in our community. Some say this is ridiculous and some same that the Government is not doing enough!
I am very proud that I am receiving mostly positive responses where most of our citizens want to do what's right to protect themselves and their families. Let's continue to pray, follow these rules from the Governor, stay positive and drive forward!
Here is link to the most current statewide situation report, highlighting the most effected areas:
Thank you & God Bless,
Lee Cone, Sheriff
Ben Hill County