Nassau, BAHAMAS- Police enforcing a nationwide lockdown intended to curb the spread of the coronavirus arrested a 71-year-old for being out and about.
The senior citizen’s reason for leaving his home during the lockdown: he wanted to stretch his legs.
Charles Johnson has been in custody since his arrest at Andros Avenue around 5:30pm on April 11.
He was shackled when he appeared before Magistrate Sandradee Gardiner.
Johnson pleaded guilty to violation of lockdown at his arraignment.
Gardiner told Johnson that at his age made him more susceptible to the coronavirus, which is responsible for eight deaths in the country.
She said, “At 71, you are part of the vulnerable group. You don’t need to be out there.”
The magistrate suggested that Johnson walk around his yard or jog in place for exercise during future lockdowns.
The magistrate convicted Johnson and fined him $400.
He has to pay the money by April 24. Otherwise, he will spend one month in prison.
Over 300 arrested for breaches
As of today, police in New Providence have prosecuted 328 people for either breaching the lockdowns or curfews aimed at promoting social distancing.
Violators could receive sentences up to 18 months in prison and fines up to $10,000.
So far, the fines imposed have ranged from $200 to $1,500.
Over in Grand Bahama, Deputy Chief Magistrate Debbye Ferguson sentenced a homeless man to a year in prison for breaking the curfew.
It’s not known whether he has appealed the sentence.
Since March 20, the country has either been under curfew or lockdown.
Prime Minister Hubert Minnis said that the restrictions are necessary to save lives.
The measures were put in place to minimise gatherings to reduce the spread of the highly contagious disease.
Last week, the government introduced another plan to curb the spread of the disease.
It is now mandatory for residents to wear masks while outdoors.
As of April 15, there were 53 confirmed coronavirus cases in the country.
