UCSC police remind community to avoid gatherings as 420 approaches
SANTA CRUZ, Calif. (KION) UC Santa Cruz police said its officers have seen gatherings on campus, despite a Shelter in Place order that is in effect, and is reminding community members not to gather as April 20 approaches.
Police said they have seen groups of people from nearby and farther away coming onto campus to use trails, open spaces and recreational areas for activities that are not allowed under the Shelter in Place order.
Because of the order, police said they posted signs around campus and taped-off some areas, but signs have gone missing or been vandalized and tape was removed in some areas.
Police said this is especially dangerous as April 20, the unofficial pot holiday approaches. For many years, there has been an unsanctioned event on campus to celebrate 420.
"Such gatherings place our community, on and off campus, and our police officers and first responders at risk of contracting the virus causing the COVID-19 disease. This is particularly dangerous because some individuals who contract the virus are asymptomatic or have mild symptoms, which means they may not be aware they carry the virus and are transmitting it to others," police said in a statement.
Violating the Shelter in Place order is a misdemeanor. Those who violate it can face a citation or arrest, and fines can be up to $1,000.
To report a non-emergency or violation of the public health order and social distancing requirements, you are asked to call police at 831-459-2231 ext. 1.
