A message from your Sheriff, 

I would first like to commend all the citizens and businesses of St. Clair County for their patience and perseverance during the difficult times we have endured over the last few weeks.  I believe the next few weeks will prove to be even more challenging.  I would like to take this opportunity to dispel some rumors about the operations of my office during our current situation.  My deputies continue to serve and protect you at their full capacity, we are answering all calls for service, and performing routine patrol's of the county as we always have.    

Now let us discuss the Governor's Order - commonly referred to as the "Stay at Home Order" - that officially went into effective at 12:01 AM on 4/06/2020. There are several misconceptions, falsehoods, and factually incorrect bits of information being disseminated regarding the Order.  I feel it prudent to offer a bit of factual information to dismiss any rumors that may be circulating. It is imperative that we remain vigilant and resilient in the face of this crisis. It is my sincere hope that a few clarifications will help bring a sense of calm to anyone who has concerns.

Deputies will not be stopping cars to ask the driver where they are going. Not only is this not part of the Governor's Order, it would be unconstitutional for us to act in this manner. If a driver is stopped for some reason such as a traffic violation, they do not have to show some written documentation of where they are headed, i.e. a "workplace travel permit"  there are no such official permits!! 

It's also important for citizens to have factual information as to the handling of formal complaints as to the Governor's Order. The Order specifically outlines violations are to be handled by local and state health (civil) authorities. Thus for any formal complaints, outside of the municipalities, they will be handled by the St. Clair County Health Department under the regulations, rules, and laws for which state statute allows for public health related investigations, enforcement, and Civil Court sanctions. Inquiries as to this process should be directed to the St. Clair County Health Department.  Inquiries as to additional restrictions, etc. inside the cities of Osceola, Appleton City, Lowry City, and Collins as put forth by city ordinance should be directed to city authorities. Sheriff's Office operations remain unchanged under this directive.

From what I have personally witnessed our local businesses have gone "above and beyond" to initiate safeguards and they are already in compliance. I am personally asking our citizens to continue their support of our local businesses. These business owners support your child's school, community organizations, the less fortunate, our emergency responders, and the list goes on and on. In reality though, the Governor has made it very clear that citizens still have to work, go to the store to get necessary items for their family's well-being and sustainability, and enjoy some outdoor activities while maintaining social distancing. This is all about using common sense and limiting everyone's exposure as much as possible.

In closing, this letter is to provide facts and ease fears of any drastic law enforcement changes during this situation. "We continue to be dedicated to our duties and serving your needs, just as always!"   

We will all get through this if we do our part and all work together.  

This is a great county and we are all in this together.

Respectfully,

Scott A. Keeler-Sheriff

St. Clair County Sheriff's Office