The proclamation issued on July 11, 2020, has caused confusion as to who enforces this mandate.

I have received inquires from residents and business owners alike as to whether they can expect a citation or arrest for failing to abide by the new rule.

The Jackson Parish Sheriff’s Office will only become involved if a customer refuses to leave a place of business after requested to do so by management, churches are exempt from enforcement of this rule.

We do not intend to enforce this face mask mandate, but keep in mind the businesses you visit do have a right not to serve you, and ask you to leave.

Louisiana Revised Statue 14:63.3 details the law “Entry on or remaining in places or on Land after being forbidden”.

According to section 5 of the Governor’s order, legal enforcement responsibility lies with the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness as well as the State Fire Marshall, and all complaints should be directed to those agencies. Please do not call 911 and tie up the emergency services in Jackson Parish for this type complaint.

Jackson Parish Sheriff’s Office urges all citizens to respect the concerns and health of vulnerable members of our community including the elderly. Some may not have the luxury of constantly being able to stay home and must obtain groceries and other services. If not for yourself, please be considerate of them.

If you are 65 years or older and a resident of the Parish, the Jackson Parish Sheriff’s Office will be glad to assist you by picking up groceries and other needs for you.

You can call 318-259-9021 if you need this assistance, or would like to speak with me.

Sheriff Andy Brown

PRESS RELEASE: July 14, 2020